Mary Berry’s Roast New Potatoes with Garlic and Rosemary is a simple yet delightful dish that epitomizes comfort food. Known for her refined yet approachable cooking style, Mary Berry takes the humble new potato and elevates it to something extraordinary. The recipe involves roasting baby potatoes to golden perfection, giving them a crispy exterior while maintaining a soft, tender interior. Infused with aromatic garlic and fresh rosemary, these potatoes are transformed into a savory and fragrant side dish that pairs wonderfully with a wide range of meals, from hearty roasts to delicate grilled meats or even a vegetarian platter. The balance of flavors is both subtle and satisfying, with the natural earthiness of the potatoes enhanced by the garlic and rosemary, making this dish a timeless classic in both everyday kitchens and festive gatherings.
Mary Berry’s Roast New Potatoes With Garlic And Rosemary Recipe
Ingredients Needed
The ingredients for Mary Berry’s Roast New Potatoes with Garlic and Rosemary are straightforward, but the combination brings out the natural flavors of each component. Here’s what you’ll need:
- New Potatoes (about 1 kg or 2.2 lbs) – New potatoes are a must for this dish due to their thin skins and waxy texture. This allows them to roast beautifully, offering a creamy interior and a crisp, golden exterior.
- Garlic (4 cloves) – Fresh garlic cloves, finely chopped or sliced, provide an aromatic depth that complements the earthiness of the potatoes. You can also crush the garlic for a more intense flavor infusion.
- Fresh Rosemary (2-3 sprigs) – Rosemary’s robust, pine-like aroma and flavor work beautifully with the potatoes. Fresh rosemary gives a fragrant note that adds a touch of elegance to the dish.
- Olive Oil (3-4 tbsp) – A good quality olive oil is essential for crisping up the potatoes and ensuring they roast evenly. Olive oil also contributes a subtle fruity richness to the dish.
- Sea Salt (to taste) – A pinch of sea salt is perfect for seasoning and drawing out the natural flavors of the potatoes. It also helps the skin crisp up nicely.
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper (to taste) – A light seasoning of freshly ground black pepper adds a mild spice that balances the garlic and rosemary.
Equipment Needed
To achieve that perfectly roasted, crispy potato, you’ll need a few basic kitchen tools:
- Roasting Tray or Baking Sheet – A flat, heavy-duty roasting tray or baking sheet ensures even heat distribution and allows the potatoes to roast uniformly. The tray should be large enough to give the potatoes space to spread out in a single layer to avoid overcrowding.
- Large Bowl – For tossing the potatoes with the olive oil, garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper before they head into the oven.
- Sharp Knife or Garlic Press – A sharp knife is essential for slicing or chopping the garlic and rosemary. Alternatively, you could use a garlic press for a more intense garlic flavor.
- Wooden Spoon or Tongs – For tossing the potatoes around halfway through roasting to ensure they cook evenly and achieve that golden, crispy texture on all sides.
- Oven – Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) for the best results. The hot temperature ensures that the potatoes crisp up nicely while the inside stays fluffy.
Instructions To Make Mary Berry’s Roast New Potatoes With Garlic And Rosemary
Making this dish is simple and straightforward, but the magic is in the method. Follow these detailed steps for delicious results:
-
Preheat The Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (400°F). A hot oven is essential for roasting the potatoes to a crisp, golden perfection.
-
Prepare The Potatoes
Wash the new potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt, as these small potatoes often come with thin skins that you’ll want to leave on. Slice them in halves or quarters, depending on their size. You want them to be relatively uniform in size so that they cook evenly.
-
Season The Potatoes
Place the potatoes in a large bowl. Drizzle the olive oil over them, ensuring each piece is lightly coated. Add the finely chopped garlic and fresh rosemary (you can strip the rosemary leaves off the stem and finely chop them for better distribution). Season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Toss everything together gently, ensuring that the potatoes are well coated with the garlic, rosemary, oil, and seasonings.
-
Roast The Potatoes
Spread the seasoned potatoes out evenly on the roasting tray or baking sheet. Make sure they’re not crowded; each potato should have a bit of space to crisp up around the edges. Place the tray in the oven and roast for about 40-45 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy. Halfway through the roasting time, use tongs or a wooden spoon to turn the potatoes so that they cook evenly on all sides.
-
Finish And Serve
Once the potatoes are crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, remove them from the oven. Give them a final sprinkle of salt and a drizzle of olive oil, if desired, before serving. Garnish with a few sprigs of fresh rosemary for an extra touch of fragrance and color. Serve hot and enjoy the crispy, golden perfection!
Tips And Tricks
- Don’t Overcrowd the Potatoes: For the crispiest result, avoid overcrowding the pan. When the potatoes are too close together, they steam instead of roast, which prevents them from achieving that golden, crispy texture.
- Use a High Smoke Point Oil: While olive oil is great for flavor, if you want an extra crispy finish, consider using oils with a higher smoke point, like sunflower or vegetable oil. You can mix a little olive oil for flavor and another oil for roasting.
- Season Generously: Don’t be afraid to really season the potatoes. The garlic and rosemary are strong flavors, so they need enough salt and pepper to shine through.
- Crispy Edges: For even more crispy edges, consider parboiling the potatoes for about 5 minutes before roasting. This helps to break down the exterior starch, leading to a crispier result.
- Vary the Herbs: While rosemary is traditional and works beautifully, you can experiment with other fresh herbs like thyme, sage, or oregano. The key is to use herbs that complement the rich, earthy flavor of the potatoes.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the potatoes rest for a few minutes after removing them from the oven. This allows the seasoning to settle in and helps them retain their crispy texture.
Mary Berry’s Roast New Potatoes with Garlic and Rosemary is a quintessentially British side dish that strikes a perfect balance between simplicity and elegance. The ingredients are few, but when combined, they create a flavor profile that is greater than the sum of its parts. With golden, crispy edges and soft, fluffy insides, these potatoes are the perfect accompaniment to almost any meal. Whether you’re making them for a casual family dinner or serving them at a special occasion, they’re sure to impress with their fragrant rosemary and garlicky goodness. Easy to make and always delicious, this dish is a surefire winner for any potato lover!
Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Roast New Potatoes With Garlic And Rosemary
While Mary Berry’s Roast New Potatoes with Garlic and Rosemary recipe is a timeless classic, there are plenty of easy variations you can experiment with to suit different tastes or dietary preferences. Here are some suggestions to make the dish your own:
1. Add Lemon Zest And Juice
For a zesty twist, you can add the zest of one lemon along with a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving. The citrus brightness complements the earthy rosemary and garlic, adding a refreshing tang to the potatoes that cuts through the richness.
2. Parmesan Crust
For those who love a bit of cheese, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano over the potatoes about 10 minutes before they finish roasting. This creates a crispy, cheesy crust that enhances the flavor profile of the dish, making each bite more indulgent and savory.
3. Crispy Bacon Bits
To add a savory crunch, crumble some cooked bacon over the potatoes just before serving. The smoky flavor from the bacon pairs wonderfully with the garlic and rosemary, creating a rich, satisfying contrast with the tender potatoes.
4. Sweet Potato Twist
For a healthier variation, swap half or all of the new potatoes for sweet potatoes. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes balances the aromatic herbs and garlic, creating a delightful contrast of flavors. Be sure to adjust the cooking time, as sweet potatoes can take a bit longer to crisp up.
5. Herb Blend
While rosemary is a staple, experimenting with different herbs can elevate the flavor. Add thyme, sage, or oregano to the mix for added complexity. A combination of thyme and rosemary, for example, provides a more aromatic depth, while sage gives a slightly earthy and peppery flavor that works well with the garlic.
6. Spicy Kick With Chili Flakes
For those who like a bit of heat, sprinkle some red chili flakes over the potatoes before roasting. The heat from the chili adds a spicy dimension that contrasts nicely with the smooth richness of the roasted potatoes, while not overpowering the other flavors.
7. Garlic Butter Version
In place of olive oil, you can roast the potatoes in garlic-infused butter. This variation brings a richer, more decadent flavor that combines the creamy taste of butter with the pungent aroma of garlic. If you’re looking for a luxurious twist, this is a great option.
8. Balsamic Glaze Drizzle
After roasting, drizzle a small amount of balsamic glaze over the potatoes for a sweet and tangy finish. The balsamic vinegar’s natural sweetness pairs harmoniously with the garlic and rosemary, creating a flavorful contrast that makes the dish even more memorable.
Storing Leftovers
Mary Berry’s Roast New Potatoes with Garlic and Rosemary are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them and reheat them without losing too much of the flavor or texture. Here’s how to store them effectively:
1. Cool Down First
Allow the potatoes to cool to room temperature before storing them. This helps prevent condensation from forming inside the container, which could make the potatoes soggy when reheated.
2. Store In An Airtight Container
Once the potatoes are cool, transfer them to an airtight container. This helps maintain their flavor and prevents them from absorbing other odors in the fridge. Be sure to layer them evenly to avoid crushing or squishing the potatoes.
3. Refrigeration
Store the potatoes in the fridge for up to 3 days. Because they are roasted, they will hold up quite well in the refrigerator. However, for the best texture, it’s recommended to consume them within 2 days.
4. Reheating Tips
To maintain their crispy exterior when reheating, it’s best to avoid microwaving them. Instead, preheat your oven to around 180°C (350°F) and spread the leftover potatoes out on a baking sheet. Roast them for 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy once again.
For a quicker option, you can reheat them in a hot skillet with a little olive oil or butter for a few minutes on medium-high heat. This will help them crisp up again, though it may not be as uniform as oven reheating.
5. Freezing For Longer Storage
If you want to store the potatoes for a longer period, freezing is an option, but with some precautions. Spread the cooked potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. Keep in mind that freezing can alter the texture slightly, and you might lose some of the crispiness once reheated.
What To Eat With Mary Berry’s Roast New Potatoes With Garlic And Rosemary?
These roast potatoes are a versatile side dish that pairs well with a wide variety of main courses. Here are some great ideas to elevate your meal:
1. Roast Chicken Or Turkey
Classic roast potatoes go hand-in-hand with roasted poultry. The crispy exterior and tender interior of the potatoes complement the juicy, flavorful meat perfectly. You can even drizzle some of the pan juices from the chicken over the potatoes for an added depth of flavor.
2. Grilled Steak
For a hearty meal, serve the potatoes alongside a grilled steak. The richness of a juicy steak pairs wonderfully with the rosemary and garlic, creating a comforting, well-rounded plate. Add a side of greens, such as sautéed spinach or a simple salad, to balance out the richness.
3. Grilled Fish
Roast new potatoes are a fantastic side dish for grilled fish, particularly white fish like cod or sea bass. The lightness of the fish works well with the earthy flavors of the potatoes, and the garlic and rosemary enhance the fish’s delicate taste without overpowering it.
4. Vegetarian Dishes
For a vegetarian meal, you can serve these roasted potatoes with a hearty vegetable casserole, a rich tomato-based pasta, or a creamy vegetable pie. The roasted potatoes act as a filling and flavorful accompaniment to a vegetable-heavy main.
5. Roast Lamb
For a more festive or indulgent meal, serve these potatoes with roast lamb. The deep, earthy flavors of lamb pair beautifully with the fragrant rosemary and garlic, making this a luxurious and satisfying pairing.
6. Brunch Pairing
These potatoes can even be part of a lavish brunch. Pair them with eggs (scrambled, poached, or fried) and a side of fresh fruit or smoked salmon for a savory brunch spread that will leave everyone satisfied.
7. Salads
If you’re looking for something lighter, serve these potatoes with a crisp, tangy salad like a Greek salad or a mixed greens salad with a vinaigrette dressing. The refreshing, acidic salad balances out the richness of the roasted potatoes and creates a satisfying combination of textures and flavors.
Conclusion
Mary Berry’s Roast New Potatoes with Garlic and Rosemary are a simple yet delicious dish that can be easily adapted to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you add a touch of citrus, spice, or cheese, the versatility of this dish makes it a perfect side for many occasions. By following proper storage techniques, you can enjoy these golden, crispy potatoes for days after the initial preparation. Pair them with anything from succulent roast meats to fresh salads for a well-rounded meal. Whether you serve them at a casual dinner or a festive feast, these potatoes are bound to impress.
FAQs
How Do I Prepare The Potatoes For Mary Berry’s Roast New Potatoes With Garlic And Rosemary Recipe?
To prepare the potatoes for this recipe, start by washing and scrubbing the new potatoes to remove any dirt. If the potatoes are large, you can cut them into halves or quarters for even cooking. However, if they are small, you can leave them whole. Once prepared, parboil the potatoes in salted boiling water for around 10 minutes until slightly tender but not fully cooked. This step ensures they crisp up nicely when roasted.
Can I Use Dried Rosemary Instead Of Fresh Rosemary For Mary Berry’s Roast New Potatoes?
While fresh rosemary is recommended for the best flavor, you can substitute dried rosemary if that’s what you have on hand. However, the flavor of dried rosemary is more intense, so you’ll want to use about half the amount of fresh rosemary called for in the recipe. It’s best to crush or chop the dried rosemary before using it to release more of its aroma and flavor.
What Temperature And Cooking Time Is Best For Roasting The Potatoes In Mary Berry’s Recipe?
For optimal results, preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan oven) or 400°F. Roast the potatoes for about 40 to 45 minutes, turning them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly and achieve a golden, crispy texture. The key is to roast the potatoes at a high temperature, allowing the garlic and rosemary to infuse the potatoes with flavor while ensuring a crispy outer layer.
