Mary Berry’s Potato Wedges Recipe [GUIDE]

Mary Berry’s Potato Wedges are a delightful take on a classic side dish. Renowned for her approachable yet refined recipes, Mary Berry’s version of potato wedges brings together crispy edges and a soft, fluffy interior with just the right balance of flavors. These potato wedges are simple to make, yet incredibly satisfying and versatile, perfect for a casual dinner or even as a side to impress at a more formal gathering.

What sets Mary Berry’s recipe apart is her focus on enhancing the natural flavors of the potatoes without overwhelming them with heavy seasonings. She uses fresh ingredients like garlic, rosemary, and a touch of olive oil to elevate the dish, making it an uncomplicated but elevated treat. These wedges have that perfect golden, crispy exterior with a tender, creamy inside-something every potato lover can appreciate.

This recipe is incredibly flexible, allowing room for adaptations like adding paprika for a smoky flavor or cayenne for a little heat. It’s a wonderful side dish for roasted meats, burgers, or even just on its own with a dip of your choice.

Mary Berry’s Potato Wedges Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To create Mary Berry’s Potato Wedges, you’ll need some basic yet high-quality ingredients. Here’s a list of the essentials:

• 4 medium-sized potatoes: Choose a starchy variety, such as Maris Piper or King Edward, for a fluffy interior and crispy exterior.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: This helps in achieving that beautiful golden crust and a hint of richness.
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary: Rosemary complements potatoes beautifully, bringing an aromatic and slightly piney flavor that enhances the earthiness of the potatoes.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Garlic powder is essential to give the wedges an extra savory punch without the hassle of chopping fresh garlic.
• Salt: To taste. A good pinch of sea salt will help bring out the flavors and season the potatoes evenly.
• Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper gives the wedges a subtle heat and bite.
• Optional toppings: A sprinkling of Parmesan cheese or freshly chopped parsley for garnish if desired.

You can also get creative with other seasonings like paprika, cumin, or even a squeeze of lemon juice before serving. The key to Mary Berry’s recipe is simplicity, allowing the flavors of the potatoes to shine through while still being flavorful and satisfying.

Equipment Needed

Mary Berry’s Potato Wedges are easy to make with just a few basic kitchen tools. Here’s what you’ll need:

• A baking sheet: A flat baking sheet is crucial to ensure that the wedges cook evenly and get that desired crispiness. Line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• A sharp knife: You’ll need a sharp knife to cut the potatoes into wedges. It’s important to have uniform cuts so that the wedges cook at the same rate.
• A mixing bowl: For tossing the potato wedges in olive oil and seasoning. A large bowl is ideal so you can easily coat all the wedges without making a mess.
• A spoon or spatula: To mix and coat the potatoes evenly in oil and seasoning.
• A brush (optional): Some like to use a pastry brush to apply oil to the potatoes if they want to make sure each wedge is thoroughly coated.
• A serving plate: Once the wedges are done, you’ll want to plate them up in a beautiful way, perhaps garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan.

Instructions To Make Mary Berry’s Potato Wedges

Making Mary Berry’s Potato Wedges is a breeze. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure perfect results:

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (400°F). This will ensure that the oven is hot and ready for the wedges, ensuring they crisp up nicely.
2. Prepare the potatoes: Wash the potatoes thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. You don’t need to peel them, as the skin helps to give them that crispy exterior. Slice each potato in half lengthwise, then cut each half into 3 or 4 wedges, depending on the size of the potato. Aim for wedges that are roughly uniform in size for even cooking.
3. Season the wedges: Place the potato wedges in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle over the dried rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss the wedges well, ensuring they are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.
4. Arrange the wedges on a baking sheet: Spread the potato wedges out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure there’s enough space between each wedge to allow for proper airflow and crisping.
5. Bake: Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 35-45 minutes, or until the wedges are golden and crispy. Halfway through the baking time, flip the wedges using tongs or a spatula to ensure they cook evenly on both sides.
6. Serve: Once the wedges are crispy and golden, remove them from the oven and serve immediately. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.

Tips And Tricks

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: For the crispiest wedges, make sure the potatoes are spread out in a single layer with a little space between each wedge. This ensures they crisp up properly, rather than steaming and becoming soggy.
• Double-coat for extra crispiness: If you want even crispier wedges, you can double-coat them by tossing them in a bit of flour before baking. This will give them a crunchy coating.
• Use a variety of potatoes: While starchy potatoes like Maris Piper work best for the fluffiness inside, experimenting with waxy potatoes like Charlotte can give you a slightly different texture with a more compact bite.
• Season well: Don’t be afraid to get generous with your seasoning. The beauty of potato wedges is that they can take on bold flavors, so feel free to add extra spices like smoked paprika, onion powder, or a dash of cayenne pepper for a little heat.
• Serve with dips: Mary Berry’s Potato Wedges are the perfect accompaniment to a variety of dips, from tangy ketchup to creamy sour cream, aioli, or even a spicy sriracha mayo. A tangy yogurt dip or herbed cream cheese would complement them beautifully.
• Storage and reheating: If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them back in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes to crisp them up again.

Mary Berry’s Potato Wedges are a timeless, fuss-free side dish that manages to be both comforting and sophisticated. Their crispy, golden exterior and tender interior make them an irresistible choice for almost any meal. What’s wonderful about this recipe is how adaptable it is, allowing you to experiment with different seasonings and toppings while keeping the essence of what makes it so delicious.

Whether you’re preparing a casual weeknight dinner or hosting friends for a barbecue, these potato wedges are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Easy to make, yet packed with flavor, they’re a testament to Mary Berry’s knack for creating dishes that are both simple and elegant. And with just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that is both satisfying and full of flavor-proof that sometimes, the best recipes are the simplest ones!

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Potato Wedges

Mary Berry’s classic potato wedges are a comfort food staple, but they’re also a great canvas for creativity in the kitchen. Whether you want to experiment with flavors or make the recipe more suited to dietary preferences, there are endless ways to put a twist on this easy, crispy dish. Let’s explore some simple variations that can elevate your potato wedges into a whole new culinary experience.

1. Herb And Garlic Potato Wedges

   • Ingredients: Fresh garlic, rosemary, thyme, parsley
   • Method: After cutting your potatoes into wedges, toss them in olive oil, freshly minced garlic, and chopped rosemary and thyme. The garlic infuses the oil, while the herbs add depth to the flavor. For an extra kick, sprinkle a bit of sea salt and cracked black pepper before baking. Garnish with fresh parsley once they come out of the oven to add a pop of color and fragrance.

2. Spicy Cajun Wedges

   • Ingredients: Cajun seasoning, paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper
   • Method: For those who like a little heat, tossing the wedges with a spicy Cajun seasoning mix adds warmth and boldness to the dish. Combine paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and a touch of salt. Coat the potato wedges in the spice mix along with olive oil, then roast to golden perfection. You can also sprinkle some extra Cajun seasoning on top right before serving to bring out an additional layer of heat.

3. Cheese And Bacon Wedges

   • Ingredients: Cheddar cheese, Parmesan, cooked bacon, sour cream
   • Method: For a decadent twist, make your wedges ooze with cheesy goodness. Once your potato wedges are crisped up, sprinkle grated cheddar and Parmesan cheese over the top and return them to the oven for a few minutes until the cheese melts. Top with crispy crumbled bacon and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt. The combination of salty, creamy, and cheesy takes your wedges to indulgent new heights.

4. Lemon And Zaatar Wedges

   • Ingredients: Zaatar seasoning, lemon zest, olive oil
   • Method: If you’re craving a Mediterranean twist, zest a lemon into your olive oil and add a generous sprinkle of zaatar (a Middle Eastern herb blend) to coat your potato wedges. The earthy herbs and citrusy freshness from the lemon balance out the richness of the potatoes, making this version a perfect side for grilled meats or fresh salads.

5. Vegan Sweet Potato Wedges

   • Ingredients: Sweet potatoes, smoked paprika, olive oil
   • Method: For a vegan-friendly take, swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes. Slice them into wedges and toss them with olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and a hint of brown sugar to enhance the natural sweetness of the potatoes. Bake until golden and crispy, and you’ll have a perfect side dish for a hearty vegan meal or even a plant-based barbecue.

6. Parmesan And Panko Crusted Wedges

   • Ingredients: Panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning
   • Method: Take your wedges to the next level by giving them a crispy crust. After tossing the wedges in olive oil, coat them in a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Bake until golden, and the result is a crispy, cheesy, and savory coating that’s sure to satisfy.

These variations not only change the flavor profile but also bring out different textures, from crunchy to gooey and cheesy, to spicy and aromatic. Feel free to mix and match the ingredients to suit your mood and preferences, as the beauty of Mary Berry’s recipe lies in its adaptability.

Storing Leftovers

Potato wedges, while best enjoyed fresh and crispy, can be stored for later enjoyment. Whether you have a bit left after a meal or you made a larger batch to use throughout the week, here are the best ways to store your leftovers to maintain as much flavor and texture as possible.

1. Refrigeration

   • Allow the wedges to cool completely at room temperature before storing them. Place them in an airtight container, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 to 3 days. While they may lose a bit of their crispiness, the flavor will remain intact. Make sure the container is sealed tightly to avoid moisture from making them soggy.

2. Freezing

   • If you want to store them for a longer period, freezing is an option. Arrange the potato wedges in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them for 1-2 hours. This step prevents them from sticking together when stored. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe zip-top bag or container. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 1 month.
   • To reheat: When ready to enjoy, bake frozen potato wedges at 200°C (400°F) for 15-20 minutes or until crispy and heated through.

3. Reheating Tips

   • The key to reheating potato wedges is to restore some of their crispy texture. The microwave can make them soggy, so opt for reheating them in the oven. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F), and bake the wedges for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. If you’re in a hurry, a quick spritz of cooking oil can help boost the crispiness.
   • Alternatively, using an air fryer is another excellent way to reheat them. The air fryer ensures that they crisp up without drying out. Simply air fry at 180°C (350°F) for around 5-7 minutes.

What To Eat With Mary Berry’s Potato Wedges?

While Mary Berry’s potato wedges are delicious on their own, they shine even brighter when paired with the right dishes. Their versatility makes them the perfect accompaniment to a wide range of meals. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or preparing a weeknight dinner, here are some ideas to pair with your crispy wedges.

1. Grilled Meats

   • Potato wedges are a natural sidekick to grilled meats, from juicy steaks to tender chicken breasts. The richness of the wedges complements the smoky flavors of char-grilled meats. Try serving them alongside grilled chicken thighs, barbecued ribs, or a juicy beef burger for a satisfying meal.

2. Dips And Sauces

   • The beauty of potato wedges is how well they pair with various dipping sauces. Classic options include ketchup, mayonnaise, or BBQ sauce, but why not go the extra mile with creamy dips like ranch, blue cheese, or aioli? For a Mediterranean twist, serve them with tzatziki or hummus, and for those who enjoy a little spice, try a chipotle mayo or sriracha dip.

3. Vegetarian Options

   • If you’re looking for a vegetarian meal, pair your potato wedges with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. A simple cucumber and tomato salad dressed with olive oil, lemon, and feta cheese works beautifully, or you could opt for a hearty roasted vegetable platter featuring zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms.

4. Fish And Chips

   • For the ultimate British classic, serve your potato wedges with battered fish. Think cod, haddock, or even a rich salmon fillet. The crispy, golden exterior of the fish paired with the crunchy wedges creates a meal that’s simply irresistible. Add a side of peas or mushy peas for the full experience.

5. Eggs And Bacon

   • For a breakfast or brunch-style meal, pair your potato wedges with crispy bacon and fried eggs. The savory wedges complement the richness of the bacon and the creamy yolk, making for a hearty, satisfying dish.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s potato wedges are a classic comfort food that’s easy to prepare, versatile, and endlessly adaptable. With a few simple twists, you can transform this humble dish into something extraordinary, whether you prefer herb-infused versions, spicy Cajun kicks, or indulgent cheesy toppings. The key to their appeal lies in their simplicity and ability to complement nearly any meal.

When storing leftovers, remember that while they are best fresh, both refrigeration and freezing offer great ways to keep them for future enjoyment. And as for pairing, the possibilities are vast – from grilled meats to fresh salads, dips, and everything in between. Whether you’re enjoying them with a family dinner or a laid-back weekend feast, Mary Berry’s potato wedges are sure to be a crowd-pleaser every time.

So, the next time you make a batch of these crispy delights, don’t be afraid to experiment and explore new flavors. With a little imagination, you can keep this classic dish exciting for any occasion!

FAQs

What Makes Mary Berry’s Potato Wedges Recipe Different From Other Potato Wedges Recipes?

Mary Berry’s potato wedges stand out due to her simple yet flavorful approach. She uses a mix of olive oil, garlic, and dried herbs, which ensures the wedges are both crispy and full of taste. Her technique involves coating the potato wedges with a light layer of oil and seasoning before baking, which helps create that perfect crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and fluffy. The recipe also emphasizes the importance of evenly cutting the potatoes to ensure consistent cooking.

How Do I Ensure My Potato Wedges Are Crispy Like Mary Berry’s?

To achieve crispy potato wedges like Mary Berry’s, make sure to preheat your oven properly and bake the wedges on a single layer on a baking tray. It’s important not to overcrowd the pan, as this prevents them from getting crispy. Another key tip is to parboil the potatoes before roasting, as this helps to release some of the starch and creates a fluffier inside, allowing for a crispier finish when baked. Additionally, tossing the wedges in oil and seasoning ensures an even coating, which contributes to the crispiness.

Can I Customize Mary Berry’s Potato Wedges Recipe With Different Seasonings?

Absolutely! While Mary Berry’s original recipe uses garlic and dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, and oregano, you can easily customize it to suit your tastes. Try adding paprika, cumin, or even a pinch of chili flakes for a bit of heat. Some people also like to add grated parmesan or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar for a more gourmet twist. The recipe is very flexible, so feel free to experiment with your favorite seasonings to match your meal.