These Duck Fat Smashed Potatoes are a perfect balance of crispy, golden edges and soft, buttery interiors. The combination of duck fat with fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme adds depth and richness, turning a simple potato dish into an unforgettable treat. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress.
The roasted garlic and herbed notes enhance the flavor while maintaining a beautifully crisp texture, making each bite a savory delight. The freshness of the parsley garnish adds a pop of color, completing the dish. It’s the ideal side for a hearty roast or a festive dinner. A surefire hit for any dinner party or family gathering.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 pounds baby potatoes
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1/4 cup duck fat
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3 garlic cloves, minced
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2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, chopped
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1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
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Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes or until tender. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
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In a small saucepan, melt the duck fat over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, rosemary, and thyme, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
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Gently smash each potato with a fork or potato masher, keeping them in one piece.
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Heat a large baking sheet in the oven for 5 minutes. Once hot, add the smashed potatoes to the sheet and drizzle with the melted duck fat mixture. Season with salt and pepper.
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Roast the potatoes for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
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Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 250 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
When it comes to comfort food, few things can beat the warmth and satisfaction of crispy, golden-brown potatoes. Potatoes are a versatile ingredient that can be prepared in numerous ways, but Duck Fat Smashed Potatoes take this humble vegetable to a whole new level. This dish offers the perfect combination of a crisp, golden exterior with a soft, fluffy interior—creating a balance of textures that are simply irresistible.
But what makes Duck Fat Smashed Potatoes stand out among other potato recipes? It’s the use of duck fat, an ingredient that adds unparalleled richness and depth of flavor. While butter and olive oil are commonly used to enhance the taste of potatoes, duck fat brings a luxurious, savory taste that elevates every bite. If you’ve never tried potatoes cooked with duck fat, you are in for a treat. The fat imparts a subtle, meaty richness and a slightly earthy undertone, making these potatoes incredibly addictive.
The Origin of Duck Fat in Cooking
Duck fat has been used in French and European cuisine for centuries. Traditionally, it was considered a luxurious ingredient, primarily used by chefs in gourmet kitchens. Duck fat is prized for its high smoke point, which makes it perfect for frying or roasting. When used for cooking potatoes, it results in an incredibly crisp exterior while keeping the interior soft and pillowy.
In many European countries, duck fat was often used for confit (a cooking method where meat is slowly cooked in its own fat), but it wasn’t long before home cooks started realizing its potential for vegetables as well. As the popularity of gourmet and comfort foods continued to rise, duck fat found its way into modern kitchens, particularly among food enthusiasts looking for ways to elevate their dishes.
Why Duck Fat Smashed Potatoes Are the Best
- Perfect Texture Combination
One of the key reasons Duck Fat Smashed Potatoes are so popular is the unique texture contrast. When you smash the potatoes, you expose more of the surface area, allowing the duck fat to crisp them up beautifully in the oven. The result is a crispy, golden crust on the outside, with a soft, fluffy center. The potatoes are not greasy, but instead, they have a perfectly balanced richness, making each bite a textural delight. - Incredible Flavor
Duck fat imparts a savory, almost umami-like flavor to the potatoes. While butter provides a creamy richness, duck fat brings a more intense, flavorful experience. This unique fat enhances the natural sweetness of the potatoes while adding a rich, almost meaty undertone. The addition of fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme further enhances the overall taste, offering a herby, aromatic profile that complements the richness of the duck fat. - High Smoke Point for Crispy Results
Duck fat has a higher smoke point than most other fats, which means it can withstand higher temperatures without burning. This makes it ideal for roasting or frying, as it allows the potatoes to achieve that golden, crispy exterior we all crave. The high smoke point ensures that the fat doesn’t break down at high heat, preserving the crispiness and flavor of the potatoes as they roast in the oven. - A Healthier Alternative to Other Fats
Although duck fat is still a fat, it is considered a healthier option compared to other fats commonly used in cooking. Duck fat contains monounsaturated fats, which are considered heart-healthy fats that can help lower bad cholesterol levels when consumed in moderation. Additionally, duck fat is also rich in vitamins like vitamin E, which has antioxidant properties that help protect the body against oxidative stress. While duck fat is not a low-calorie option, its health benefits, when used sparingly, make it a better choice for certain cooking techniques. - Versatility
Duck Fat Smashed Potatoes are an incredibly versatile side dish. They pair wonderfully with just about any main course. Whether you’re serving them alongside a roast chicken, grilled steak, or a vegetarian entrée, these potatoes are sure to complement the dish. The crispy edges make them a great alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, and their unique flavor profile is perfect for everything from casual dinners to fancy dinner parties.
Tips for the Perfect Duck Fat Smashed Potatoes
- Choose the Right Potatoes
For the best results, it’s important to use the right type of potato. Baby potatoes or Yukon Golds are perfect for smashing because of their waxy texture, which helps them hold their shape. Waxy potatoes also have a smooth, creamy interior once cooked, providing the perfect contrast to the crispy exterior. - Don’t Skip the Resting Time
After boiling the potatoes, make sure to let them rest for a few minutes before smashing them. This allows the potatoes to firm up slightly, making them easier to handle when you’re smashing them. This step also helps prevent the potatoes from becoming too mushy. - Smash Them Gently
When smashing the potatoes, don’t go overboard. You want to apply just enough pressure to flatten them slightly but not to mash them into a puree. The idea is to expose more surface area for crisping without turning them into a mushy mess. - Use Fresh Herbs
Fresh rosemary and thyme are a classic combination for Duck Fat Smashed Potatoes. These herbs add a wonderful fragrance and earthy flavor that complement the richness of the duck fat. Feel free to experiment with other herbs like sage or oregano if you’re looking for a different flavor profile. - Give Them Space to Crisp
To achieve the perfect crispy texture, make sure the smashed potatoes are spread out evenly on the baking sheet. If the potatoes are too crowded, they’ll steam instead of crisping up. Make sure there’s enough space between each potato to allow the duck fat to work its magic and create that golden, crispy edge.
Why Duck Fat Smashed Potatoes Should Be Your Go-To Side Dish
Whether you’re preparing a holiday feast, hosting a dinner party, or simply looking to elevate your weeknight meals, Duck Fat Smashed Potatoes are an excellent choice. Their balance of textures, incredible flavor, and versatility make them a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. The luxurious richness of duck fat adds a special touch to the dish, turning ordinary potatoes into a show-stopping side.
Not only are Duck Fat Smashed Potatoes a flavorful indulgence, but they are also a healthier alternative to some traditional cooking fats, providing heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and beneficial vitamins. When prepared correctly, these potatoes will quickly become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.
Incorporating Duck Fat Smashed Potatoes into your meal plan is a surefire way to impress guests or elevate a simple dinner at home. With just a few ingredients, this dish proves that sometimes the best meals come from simple, high-quality ingredients. The crispy edges, fluffy interior, and savory richness will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Conclusion
Duck Fat Smashed Potatoes are more than just a side dish; they are an experience. The combination of crispy, golden edges and a soft, fluffy interior creates a texture that’s both satisfying and indulgent. Enhanced by the rich, savory flavor of duck fat, these potatoes stand out as a luxurious yet simple dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a special meal for guests or treating yourself to a comforting dinner, this recipe brings a gourmet touch to your table.
What makes these potatoes even more special is their versatility. They pair beautifully with a variety of main courses, from roast meats to vegetarian dishes, making them a perfect addition to almost any meal. Plus, the benefits of using duck fat—such as its heart-healthy fats and high smoke point—make them a better choice than other cooking fats.
The ease of preparation, combined with the incredible flavor and texture, ensures that Duck Fat Smashed Potatoes will become a staple in your cooking repertoire. So why not elevate your next meal with this delicious, crispy, and flavorful side? Your taste buds (and your guests) will thank you!