Description of this recipe: These Smoky Paprika Potato Wedges are a simple yet incredibly satisfying side dish or snack. Russet potatoes are transformed into crispy, golden wedges, infused with a smoky paprika spice blend and a tangy red wine vinegar kick. The perfect balance of textures and flavors makes these wedges a crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to disappear quickly.
Why you will love this recipe:
- Ultimate Crispiness: The high oven temperature and ample surface area of the wedges ensure a maximum level of crispiness that’s simply irresistible.
- Bold Flavor: The combination of sweet paprika, black pepper, and a touch of red wine vinegar creates a complex and delicious flavor profile that elevates the humble potato.
- Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings.
- Versatile: These wedges pair perfectly with a variety of main courses, from grilled chicken and burgers to steak and fish. They also make a fantastic appetizer or snack.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the spice blend to your liking, adding chili powder for heat or garlic powder for extra savory flavor.
Introduction
Potato wedges, in their simplest form, are a testament to the magic of the potato. Humble yet versatile, potatoes have the unique ability to transform into a variety of delectable dishes. We’ve all had french fries, but these Smoky Paprika Potato Wedges step up the game. They provide a more substantial bite, a deeper potato flavor, and a satisfying textural contrast between the crispy exterior and the fluffy interior.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the potent combination of smoky, savory, and tangy flavors. Sweet paprika infuses the potato with a warm, smoky depth, while the black pepper adds a subtle hint of spice. A splash of red wine vinegar provides a welcome tang that cuts through the richness of the potatoes and enhances the overall flavor profile.
These wedges are not just delicious; they’re also incredibly easy to make. The key is to preheat the oven to a high temperature and to ensure the potatoes are well-coated in the flavorful oil and spice mixture. Turning them halfway through cooking is crucial for even browning and maximum crispiness.
Whether you’re looking for a comforting side dish for a family dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer for a party, these Smoky Paprika Potato Wedges are sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience potato perfection!
Ingredients:
- 800g floury potatoes, such as Russet or Maris Piper, scrubbed and cut into wedges
- 4 tbsp sunflower oil (or other neutral-flavored oil like canola or vegetable oil)
- 1 tsp fine sea salt
- 1 tsp sweet paprika
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp coarse sea salt flakes, optional, for garnish
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Potatoes
Begin by preheating your oven to a high temperature of 220°C (428°F), or 200°C (392°F) for fan-assisted ovens. This high heat is essential for achieving that coveted crispy exterior. While the oven is preheating, take your 800g of floury potatoes. Russet potatoes or Maris Piper are excellent choices due to their high starch content, which contributes to their fluffiness inside and crispiness outside. Thoroughly scrub the potatoes to remove any dirt or debris, but don’t peel them! The skins add texture and flavor to the wedges. Cut the potatoes lengthwise into sixths or eighths, depending on their size. Aim for wedges that are roughly uniform in size to ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Prepare the Paprika Marinade
In a large bowl, whisk together the 4 tablespoons of sunflower oil, 1 teaspoon of fine sea salt, and 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika. The sunflower oil will help to create a crispy crust and prevent the potatoes from sticking to the baking sheet. The sweet paprika lends its signature smoky and slightly sweet flavor to the wedges. Next, add the 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar and ½ teaspoon of ground black pepper. The red wine vinegar introduces a tangy element that brightens the overall flavor profile, while the black pepper adds a subtle warmth. Whisk the mixture thoroughly to ensure all the ingredients are well combined.
Step 3: Marinate the Potato Wedges
Add the potato wedges to the bowl with the paprika marinade. Using your hands or a large spoon, toss the wedges thoroughly to coat them evenly in the mixture. Make sure every wedge is generously covered with the oil and spice blend. This step is crucial for infusing the potatoes with flavor and ensuring they crisp up beautifully in the oven. Allow the potatoes to marinate for at least 10 minutes while the oven continues to preheat. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the potatoes and further enhance their taste. You can marinate them for longer, up to 30 minutes, for an even more intense flavor.
Step 4: Arrange the Wedges on a Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the potatoes from sticking to the sheet and make cleanup much easier. Arrange the marinated potato wedges in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not overcrowded. Overcrowding can prevent the potatoes from crisping up properly. If necessary, use two baking sheets to ensure the wedges have enough space.
Step 5: Roast the Potato Wedges
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the potato wedges for approximately 30 minutes, or until they are crispy and golden brown. To ensure even cooking and browning, turn the wedges halfway through the cooking time, around the 15-minute mark. This will ensure that both sides of the wedges are equally crispy. Keep a close eye on the potatoes during the last few minutes of cooking to prevent them from burning. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on your oven.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the potato wedges are cooked to perfection, remove them from the oven. Sprinkle them with a generous pinch of coarse sea salt flakes, if desired. The sea salt flakes will add a delightful burst of salty flavor and enhance the overall taste of the wedges. Serve the Smoky Paprika Potato Wedges immediately while they are still hot and crispy.
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a side dish with grilled chicken, steak, or fish.
- Pair with burgers or sandwiches for a satisfying meal.
- Serve as an appetizer with your favorite dipping sauce, such as aioli, ketchup, or ranch dressing.
- Add to a charcuterie board for a flavorful and satisfying addition.
- Enjoy as a snack on their own.
Tips:
- Use floury potatoes, such as Russets or Maris Piper, for the best results.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet, or the potatoes will steam instead of crisping up.
- Turn the wedges halfway through cooking for even browning.
- Adjust the spice blend to your liking. Add chili powder for heat or garlic powder for extra flavor.
- For extra crispy wedges, soak the potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes before cooking. This helps to remove excess starch.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
30 minutes
Total Time:
45 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Approximate values per serving, based on 4 servings)
Calories: 250-300 Protein: 4-5g Sodium: 400-500mg
Conclusion
These Smoky Paprika Potato Wedges are a testament to the fact that simple ingredients and straightforward techniques can yield incredibly delicious results. The crispy exterior, fluffy interior, and bold flavor profile make these wedges a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish, appetizer, or snack, they’re sure to be a hit. So, go ahead and give this recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed!
Questions and Answers about this Recipe:
Q1: Can I use a different type of potato for this recipe?
A: While floury potatoes like Russets or Maris Piper are highly recommended for their superior crispiness and fluffy texture, you can certainly experiment with other types of potatoes. Yukon Gold potatoes will offer a slightly creamier texture, while red potatoes will be firmer and hold their shape better. Keep in mind that the cooking time may need to be adjusted depending on the type of potato you use.
Q2: Can I add other spices to the paprika marinade?
A: Absolutely! This recipe is incredibly versatile, and you can easily customize the spice blend to your liking. Consider adding a pinch of chili powder for a hint of heat, garlic powder for a savory kick, onion powder for added depth of flavor, or smoked paprika for an even more intense smoky taste. Experiment with different combinations to find your perfect flavor profile.
Q3: How do I prevent the potato wedges from sticking to the baking sheet?
A: To prevent the potato wedges from sticking, it’s essential to line the baking sheet with parchment paper. This creates a barrier between the potatoes and the sheet, ensuring they release easily once cooked. Additionally, make sure the potatoes are well-coated in the oil and spice mixture, as this will also help to prevent sticking. Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet, as this can also contribute to sticking.
Q4: Can I make these wedges ahead of time?
A: While these potato wedges are best served immediately for maximum crispiness, you can prepare them ahead of time to some extent. You can cut the potatoes and prepare the marinade up to a few hours in advance. Store the marinated potatoes in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook them. Keep in mind that the longer the potatoes marinate, the more intense the flavor will be. However, cooked wedges will lose their crispness as they cool.
Q5: What are some dipping sauce options for these potato wedges?
A: The possibilities are endless! Classic options like ketchup, mayonnaise, and ranch dressing are always a hit. For a more sophisticated flavor, try aioli (garlic mayonnaise), sriracha mayo, or a homemade barbecue sauce. You could also serve them with a creamy blue cheese dressing or a tangy honey mustard sauce. Experiment with different sauces to find your favorite pairing.
