Indulge in the luxurious simplicity of Classic Pommes Anna, a French dish that transforms humble potatoes into a crispy, buttery delight. This elegant recipe is perfect for special occasions or a delightful side dish to elevate any meal. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that’s both impressive and delicious. Let’s dive into the details of making this classic French potato dish.
Ingredients
- 1.5 kg / 3.3 lb potatoes
- 6 tbsp butter
- Salt
- 100g Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Thyme (optional)
- Black pepper (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Potatoes
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Ensure your oven is properly preheated to achieve the best results for crispy and evenly cooked potatoes.
- Peel the potatoes and thinly slice them, ideally to about 1/8 inch thickness.
- Use a mandoline or a sharp knife for consistent slices, which is crucial for even cooking.
Step 2: Layer the Potatoes
- Melt the butter in a large ovenproof skillet over medium heat.
- A cast iron skillet is ideal as it retains heat well and ensures even cooking.
- Arrange the potato slices in a single layer in the bottom of the skillet, overlapping the slices slightly.
- This overlapping pattern helps the layers stick together and creates a beautiful presentation.
- Season with salt.
- Continue layering the potatoes in a circular pattern, overlapping the slices and stopping every few layers to season with salt.
- For added flavor, you can sprinkle Parmesan cheese, thyme, and black pepper between the layers.
- Once all the potatoes have been layered, press down gently on the top to compress the potatoes slightly.
- This compression helps the layers to hold together and cook evenly.
Step 3: Cook the Potatoes
- Tilt the skillet slightly and pour off any excess butter.
- This step ensures that the potatoes aren’t overly greasy and helps them to crisp up nicely.
- Place the skillet in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and golden brown on the bottom.
- The exact time may vary depending on your oven and the thickness of your potato slices.
Optional: Crispy Top
- If you want the top to be crispy as well, carefully remove the pan from the oven and flip the potatoes over like a giant pancake.
- Use a plate to help you flip the potatoes, ensuring they stay in one piece.
- Slide the potatoes back into the skillet and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- This extra step adds a delightful crunch to the dish.
Step 4: Serve
- Let the potatoes cool slightly before serving.
- Cooling allows the layers to set, making it easier to cut and serve.
- Cut into wedges and serve immediately.
- This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of mains, from roast chicken to steak.
Tips for Success
- Uniform Slices: Consistent slicing ensures even cooking. A mandoline is a helpful tool for achieving uniform slices.
- Butter Management: Pour off excess butter to avoid a greasy dish and help achieve a crispy texture.
- Seasoning: Don’t skimp on seasoning. Each layer should be well-seasoned for the best flavor.
Health Benefits
While Pommes Anna is indulgent due to the butter, potatoes themselves are a good source of vitamins and minerals. Potatoes provide vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, making this dish a tasty way to enjoy some of the nutritional benefits of this versatile vegetable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I add other herbs and spices to this dish?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with rosemary, garlic, or even a bit of paprika for added flavor.
Q: Can I make Pommes Anna ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare and bake it ahead of time. To reheat, place the skillet in a preheated oven until warmed through.
Q: What should I serve with Pommes Anna?
A: Pommes Anna pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, poultry, and even fish. It’s also great alongside a fresh, crisp salad.
Classic Pommes Anna is a dish that brings out the best in simple ingredients. Its rich, buttery layers make it a standout side dish for any meal. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the elegance and flavor of this classic French potato dish, and don’t forget to check out our other recipes for more culinary inspiration!