Fondant Potatoes

Name: Fondant Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 6 medium Yukon Gold potatoes; 3 tbsp unsalted butter; 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, smashed; 4-5 sprigs fresh thyme; 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth; Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe By:

Stephanie

Posted:

May 19, 2025

Updated:

May 19, 2025

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Fondant Potatoes are a delightful French dish that offers a perfect blend of crispy and creamy textures. This recipe is ideal for various occasions, from weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. The standout quality of Fondant Potatoes lies in their buttery flavor and elegant presentation, making them an impressive side dish that complements a wide range of main courses.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can create a gourmet dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
Rich Flavors: The combination of butter, garlic, and fresh thyme elevates the taste, creating a mouthwatering experience.
Versatile Side Dish: Fondant Potatoes pair perfectly with meats, poultry, or even vegetarian dishes, making them suitable for any meal.
Impressive Presentation: Their unique cylindrical shape and golden-brown crust make them visually appealing on any dinner table.
Comfort Food Appeal: The creamy interior offers a comforting feel, perfect for cozy family dinners or special occasions.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your experience and ensure that you achieve perfect Fondant Potatoes every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large oven-safe skillet
Peeler
Chef’s knife
Cutting board
Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Large oven-safe skillet: Essential for both searing and baking the potatoes, ensuring even cooking.
Peeler: Makes peeling the potatoes quick and easy.
Chef’s knife: A sharp knife helps achieve uniform potato shapes for consistent cooking.

Ingredients

Fondant Potatoes are a classic French dish where potatoes are seared and baked with butter and broth, creating a crispy exterior and creamy interior.

6 medium Yukon Gold potatoes
Salt and pepper to taste
3 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, smashed
4-5 sprigs fresh thyme
1 cup chicken or vegetable broth

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Fondant Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Peel the potatoes using your peeler.
Slice off the ends so each potato has flat surfaces.
Cut them into cylinders about 2 inches thick.

Step 2: Sear the Potatoes

Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
Season the potato cylinders generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
Place the potatoes in the skillet and sear one side for 5-6 minutes until golden brown.
Flip the potatoes and sear the other side for another 5-6 minutes.

Step 3: Add Butter and Herbs

Reduce heat to medium.
Add unsalted butter to the skillet; let it melt and foam.
Add smashed garlic cloves and thyme sprigs to infuse flavor.
Baste the tops of the potatoes with melted butter by tilting the skillet slightly.

Step 4: Bake in Broth

Carefully pour chicken or vegetable broth into the skillet without pouring it directly over the potatoes.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until tender inside.

Step 5: Serve Your Fondant Potatoes

Once done baking, remove from oven and discard garlic and thyme sprigs.
Spoon some of the remaining buttery broth over potatoes before serving for added flavor.

Enjoy your delicious Fondant Potatoes alongside your favorite main dishes!

How to Serve Fondant Potatoes

Fondant Potatoes are a delightful side dish that can elevate any meal. Their creamy texture and rich flavor pair well with a variety of main courses, making them a versatile choice for your dining table.

With Roasted Meats

Roast Chicken: The buttery flavor of fondant potatoes complements the savory notes of roast chicken beautifully.
Beef Tenderloin: Serve alongside perfectly cooked beef tenderloin for an elegant dinner option.
Pork Chops: The richness of the potatoes balances the flavors of seared pork chops nicely.

As Part of a Vegetarian Meal

Grilled Vegetables: Pair fondant potatoes with a medley of grilled seasonal vegetables for a wholesome vegetarian option.
Mushroom Risotto: The creamy risotto and fondant potatoes together create a comforting dish that’s full of flavor.

With Fresh Salads

Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad brings a crisp contrast to the soft texture of fondant potatoes.
Arugula Salad: The peppery notes in arugula salad enhance the buttery taste, creating a refreshing combination.

How to Perfect Fondant Potatoes

To ensure your Fondant Potatoes turn out perfectly every time, follow these essential tips.

Use Yukon Gold Potatoes: These potatoes have a creamy texture that works best for this recipe, ensuring the perfect mouthfeel.
Sear Until Golden Brown: Achieving a good sear on each side creates that desirable crispy exterior, adding texture to each bite.
Baste With Butter: Continuously basting the potatoes with butter helps infuse them with flavor and moisture, enhancing their richness.
Monitor Oven Temperature: Keep your oven at 400°F (200°C) for even cooking; too high or low can affect tenderness.
Let Rest Before Serving: Allowing the potatoes to rest after baking gives them time to absorb flavors from the broth.
Garnish Wisely: A sprinkle of fresh herbs or grated cheese can elevate your dish visually and in taste.

Best Side Dishes for Fondant Potatoes

Fondant Potatoes shine as a side dish, but they can be complemented by an array of other sides. Here are some great options to consider:

Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic make for a quick and flavorful side that pairs well with the richness of fondant potatoes.
Creamed Spinach: This classic dish adds creaminess and depth, enhancing your meal’s overall flavor profile.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots with honey contrast nicely against the savory taste of fondant potatoes.
Herbed Quinoa: A light quinoa salad flavored with herbs offers a nutritious balance to your plate.
Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts add crunch and earthy flavors that complement the soft texture of fondant potatoes.
Balsamic Roasted Beets: The sweetness and acidity from balsamic beets provide an excellent counterpoint to the richness of your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Fondant Potatoes, some common mistakes can affect the final result. Here are a few to watch out for:

Skipping the searing step: Failing to sear the potatoes can lead to a lack of that crispy exterior. Make sure to brown them well on both sides before adding broth.
Cutting uneven potato cylinders: If your potatoes are not uniform in size, they will cook unevenly. Aim for consistent 2-inch thick cylinders for even cooking.
Overcrowding the skillet: Placing too many potatoes in the pan at once can trap moisture and prevent crispiness. Sear them in batches if necessary.
Not using enough seasoning: Under-seasoning can lead to bland potatoes. Be generous with salt and pepper on both sides before cooking.
Pouring broth directly over the potatoes: This can make the tops soggy. Carefully pour it around the potatoes instead, keeping the tops dry for that desired texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

item Store leftover Fondant Potatoes in an airtight container.
item They will last for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Fondant Potatoes

item You can freeze cooled Fondant Potatoes in an airtight container or freezer bag.
item They will keep well for up to 2 months; however, texture may change upon reheating.

Reheating Fondant Potatoes

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the potatoes in a baking dish covered with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place a single layer of potatoes on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat in short bursts, checking frequently.
Stovetop: Heat a little butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the potatoes and warm them, turning occasionally until heated through and crispy again.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Fondant Potatoes?

Fondant Potatoes are a classic French dish made from seared and baked potatoes that have a crispy exterior and creamy interior.

Can I use different types of potatoes for Fondant Potatoes?

While Yukon Golds are recommended for their buttery flavor, you can experiment with other waxy potatoes like red or new potatoes for different textures.

How do I ensure my Fondant Potatoes are crispy?

To achieve that perfect crispiness, make sure to sear them well before adding broth, and avoid pouring broth directly over them during cooking.

Can I customize my Fondant Potatoes?

Absolutely! You can add herbs like rosemary or spices such as paprika to enhance flavors according to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

Fondant Potatoes offer a delightful combination of textures and flavors that elevate any meal. Their versatility allows you to customize them based on your preferences, making them an ideal side dish for various cuisines. Try this recipe today and enjoy its rich buttery goodness!

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