There’s something undeniably comforting about a humble yet flavorful dish like Ofenkartoffeln. This classic German recipe translates to “oven potatoes,” and it’s the epitome of simple, delicious home cooking. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a side dish for a family gathering, Ofenkartoffeln are versatile and easily customizable to suit your taste preferences. Let’s dive into how you can easily whip up a batch of these crispy and flavorful oven-roasted potatoes in your own kitchen.
**Ofenkartoffeln**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 pounds of medium-sized potatoes (such as Yukon Gold or Russet)
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 teaspoon of paprika
– 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
2. Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Leave the skins on for added flavor and texture. Cut the potatoes into bite-sized chunks, ensuring they are relatively uniform in size for even cooking.
3. In a large bowl, toss the potato chunks with olive oil, ensuring each piece is coated evenly. The oil will help the seasonings adhere to the potatoes and promote crispiness during baking.
4. Sprinkle the paprika, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper over the potatoes. Use more or less seasoning according to your taste preference. Toss the potatoes again to distribute the seasonings uniformly.
5. Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lead to steaming rather than roasting the potatoes, resulting in less crispy edges.
6. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the potatoes for about 30-35 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Remember to toss the potatoes halfway through the cooking time for even browning.
7. Once the Ofenkartoffeln are cooked to perfection, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and additional flavor before serving.
Ofenkartoffeln are best enjoyed hot and fresh out of the oven, paired with your favorite dipping sauce or served as a side dish to complement a hearty main course. These crispy roasted potatoes are sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire, offering a comforting and satisfying dish that never fails to please.
Whether you’re looking to elevate a weeknight dinner or impress guests at your next gathering, Ofenkartoffeln are a delicious and effortless addition to any meal. Give this recipe a try and savor the crispy goodness of oven-roasted potatoes that embody the essence of cozy home cooking.