Few foods are as beloved in Britain as a plate of perfectly roasted potatoes. A staple of Sunday lunches and family dinners alike, the humble roast potato is prized for its crisp, golden exterior and soft, fluffy centre. Yet despite its apparent simplicity, getting that restaurant-quality crunch at home can prove frustratingly difficult.
The Secret Ingredient for Crispier Potatoes
Many cooks find themselves battling potatoes that turn out limp, pale or unevenly cooked, even when following tried-and-tested recipes. Now, a popular tip from food blogger Food by Maria has captured attention online, with fans claiming the simple technique transforms ordinary roast potatoes into irresistibly crispy perfection.
"Do not skip the step of boiling your potatoes with baking soda," she says. "Baking soda will help your potatoes get crispy in the oven. This is the trick!"
The Science Behind the Hack
While it might sound unconventional, there is solid science behind the method. Adding a small amount of baking soda, just half a teaspoon, to the water when parboiling your potatoes changes its pH level, making it more alkaline. This higher pH helps break down the potato's surface starches more effectively, resulting in a soft, fluffy exterior. When roasted, these rough edges soak up oil more efficiently and brown more evenly, producing that coveted crisp shell.
How to Use the Method at Home
To use the method at home, start by peeling and chopping your potatoes into even pieces. Boil them briefly in water with a dash of baking soda, then drain and shake the pot gently to roughen their surfaces. Next, toss them with oil, salt, and herbs of your choice, and roast at a high temperature until they are golden brown and irresistibly crispy. The best part is that this hack works with virtually any roast potato recipe, making it an easy and affordable way to upgrade your meals.
So, next time you are planning a roast dinner or just craving the ultimate potato side dish, remember to add that pinch of baking soda. It might just be the easiest kitchen trick you have ever learned, and one that makes your roast potatoes the star of the table.
