These garlic dill Hasselback potatoes are a delightful twist on classic baked potatoes. The potatoes are partially sliced into thin, accordion-like cuts, allowing the flavorful garlic butter mixture to seep into each layer. This method not only enhances the taste but also creates a beautiful presentation with crispy edges and tender insides. The combination of savory garlic, aromatic dill, and rich butter makes these potatoes an irresistible side dish or a satisfying main course.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Total Time: 65-75 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 medium potatoes (russet or Yukon Gold recommended)
- 4-5 cloves garlic, minced
- 50g (approximately 1/4 cup) butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon dried dill, or to taste
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 190-200°C (374-392°F). Ensure the oven is fully heated before placing the potatoes inside for even cooking.
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Wash the potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Pat the potatoes dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
- To create the Hasselback effect, place each potato between two chopsticks or wooden spoons. This will prevent you from slicing all the way through the potato.
- Using a sharp knife, make thin, evenly spaced slices across the potato, cutting about halfway or two-thirds of the way down.
- Prick the potatoes several times with a fork. This allows steam to escape during the cooking process, preventing the potatoes from bursting.
- Make the Garlic Butter Mixture:
- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, dried dill, and a pinch of salt.
- Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Season the Potatoes:
- Rub each potato with olive oil, ensuring the entire surface is coated. This will help the skin to crisp up nicely.
- Generously brush the garlic butter mixture over each potato, making sure to get the mixture in between the slices.
- If you have left over garlic butter, set it aside for basting the potatoes halfway through the baking process.
- Bake:
- Place the potatoes on a baking tray lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Sprinkle additional salt over the potatoes, if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender on the inside and have a crispy skin on the outside.
- Halfway through the baking process, remove the potatoes from the oven and baste them again with any remaining garlic butter mixture.
- To test for doneness, insert a fork or knife into the center of a potato. It should slide in easily.
- Serve:
- Remove the baked potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
- Offer the baked potatoes hot, and if you like, with extra butter or your favorite toppings such as sour cream, chives, grated cheese, crumbled bacon, or a dollop of Greek yogurt.
Tips:
- Potato Selection: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for baking due to their high starch content and ability to hold their shape.
- Even Slicing: Using chopsticks or wooden spoons as guides will help you achieve even slices and prevent cutting all the way through the potatoes.
- Garlic Intensity: Adjust the amount of garlic to your preference. You can also roast the garlic before mincing it for a milder, sweeter flavor.
- Crispy Skin: For extra crispy skin, you can brush the potatoes with more olive oil or melted butter during the baking process.
- Basting: Basting the potatoes with the garlic butter mixture halfway through baking ensures that the flavors penetrate deeply and the potatoes remain moist.
Variations to Try:
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano.
- Cheese Infusion: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese or other hard cheeses between the slices before baking.
- Bacon Bits: Add cooked and crumbled bacon bits between the slices for a smoky, savory flavor.
- Spicy Potatoes: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the garlic butter mixture for a spicy kick.
- Lemon Herb: Add lemon zest and fresh herbs like thyme to the garlic butter. A squeeze of lemon juice at the end gives a nice bright flavor.
- Sweet Potato: Substitute sweet potatoes for a sweeter version.
- Onion Addition: Thinly slice onions, and place them between some of the slices of the potatoes.
These garlic dill Hasselback potatoes are a versatile and delicious side dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy!