You can’t beat a golden tray of oven-baked potatoes, crisp on the outside and perfectly seasoned inside. While a little salt and some pepper may be enough, herbs and spices are a great way to elevate this humble dish.
They are easy to prepare and can be made in a variety of ways. No matter if you prefer a bold, spicy flavor or a warm, herby one, the right combination can transform potatoes into a star component in any meal. A list of delectable herb and spice combinations is provided, along with advice on how to get the ideal taste and texture.
Basics For Oven-Baked Potatoes
Before we get into the details, let’s go over some basic information. It is important to understand the basics of baking potatoes in an oven.
- Ingredients: Yukon Golds and Russets make the best potatoes. Yukon Golds keep their shape, are buttery, and have a good texture. Russets, on the other hand, are fluffier inside and crispier out.
- Potato size: If you want to cook your potatoes evenly, make sure that the potatoes are cut into cubes and thick rounds.
- Temperature: 425°F or 400°F is optimal.
- Oil: Toss potatoes in olive oil for seasonings to stick and browning.
Once you’ve perfected this technique, add your own flavor.
- Garlic & Rosemary blending
Garlic and rosemary combine to create a savory, aromatic flavor that goes well with grilled or roasted meats.
- Ingredients: A sprig of rosemary, finely chopped garlic, a drizzle of olive oil, plus a touch of salt and black pepper.
- Flavor profile: A robust earthy flavor with a slight piney note from the rosemary.
- Tip: For maximum flavor, toss fresh rosemary sprigs into hot potatoes right out of the oven.
- Smoky-Paprika & Thiyme
For a slightly smoky, rustic flavor with a hint of warmth, try this Mediterranean-inspired blend.
- Ingredients: Salt, pepper, cracked garlic, smoked paprika.
- Flavor Profile: Smoky with herbaceous notes and a subtle spicy kick.
- Tip: You can add a small amount of cayenne to your dish if you enjoy some heat.
- Lemon Zest & Dill
Bright and refreshing blend that’s ideal when you are looking for a lighter flavor. Serve with seafood or vegetables grilled on the grill.
- Ingredients: Dill, olive oil, and lemon zest.
- Taste profile: Fresh, citrusy, and slightly tangy.
- Tip: Add the zest of a lemon to the food just before serving it. This will keep it aromatic and prevent bitterness.
- Curry-Spiced Potatoes
Spice your baked potato with Indian spices. It’s bright, vibrant, and delicious.
- Ingredients: A blend of curry powder with turmeric, a dash of cumin, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt.
- Flavor profile: Earthy, warm, and slightly exotic.
- Tips: Serve a yogurt-based dip with the spiced burgers to balance and cool your palate. If you’re a fan of hearty meals, pairing these flavorful potatoes with a juicy burger can make a complete comfort-food plate. For more ideas, check out these tips for making a perfect burger.
Getting Texture Right
While seasoning is essential, the way that you cook your potato also has an impact on how those flavors are brought out. Here are three key tips that will help you bake potatoes to perfection every time.
- Soak them:Once chopped, let the potato pieces rest in a bowl of cold water for about half an hour. This draws out excess starch and helps them roast up extra crispy. This enhances crispiness.
- Don’t crowd the pan: Let the potatoes have space to roast, instead of steaming.
- Flip Once: Halfway during cooking, gently stir or flip the potatoes to ensure they are evenly browning.
Even better, a potato well-seasoned has the right texture. Golden-brown edges with fluffy centers and a light char for that perfect bite.
Serving Suggestions
Many people do not realize the versatility of oven-baked potatoes that are seasoned. According to the seasoning, they can be served with:
- Grilled meats: Rosemary or smoky blends pair well
- Seafood and Fish: Try lemon-dill blends or garlic-herb mixes
- Vegetarian foods: Curry or paprika potatoes are perfect partners
- Breakfast plate: Potatoes with paprika, garlic, or both work well with eggs
Enjoy them as a snack or with a dip like garlic aioli.
Final Thoughts
Potatoes do not have to look plain. By adding some herbs and spices to your pantry, your potatoes will go from boring to brilliant. There are many different blends for each meal, including savory, spicy, and zesty.
The bold is the way to go tonight. Use one of these easy-to-use seasonings to roast potatoes. Even the simplest of meals will be transformed.
