Crispy potato rosti combines the simplicity of potatoes with the irresistible allure of a crispy, golden crust that gives you an epic crunch with every bite! So simple to make, and perfect as breakfast, an appetiser or side dish, my kids absolutely love the crunchiness, and you can even add all sorts of topping and slice it up like a pizza!
Rosti, with its roots in Swiss cuisine, has been enjoyed for generations. Originally a farmer’s breakfast, it has evolved into a beloved comfort food found in homes and restaurants around the world. Its enduring popularity speaks to its timeless appeal, and it can be easily found in many Western or Swiss restaurants like Marché.
The crispiness of the outer layer paired with the tender, grated potato interior creates a delightful contrast in texture. When seasoned to perfection, each bite is a burst of flavour. With only 4 basic ingredients, this recipe is more about the technique than the ingredients:
- Potatoes: Select four medium-sized potatoes with a high starch content. Any all-rounder varieties like Russet or Yukon Gold will work well for rosti.
- Cornstarch: You’ll need half a cup of cornstarch to bind the potatoes and enhance the crispy texture.
- Salt and Pepper: These seasonings are the heart of any great rosti, so be generous with both to taste.
The beauty of crispy potato rosti lies in its adaptability. It welcomes your creative touches, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences and experiment with various flavours. Whether you choose to add onions, herbs, or cheese, each variation offers a unique and delightful experience:
- Grated Onions: Experiment with grated onions to introduce an additional layer of flavour and a hint of sweetness to your rosti. The caramelized onions meld beautifully with the crispy exterior.
- Herbs: Elevate your rosti’s aroma and taste by incorporating your favorite fresh or dried herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, or chives. These herbs not only add a delightful fragrance but also infuse each bite with a burst of freshness.
- Cheesy Crust: For a decadent twist, add a layer of grated cheese on top of the rosti while it’s cooking. This will create a mouthwatering cheesy crust, with the gooey goodness complementing the crispiness, creating an irresistible texture and flavour contrast.
Crispy Potato Rosti is more than a meal; it’s an experience to be shared with friends and family, and my kids will certainly attest to that! While rosti is commonly served for breakfast or brunch, its versatility extends to various meal settings. Pair it with eggs and bacon for a hearty morning meal, or serve it as a side dish alongside grilled meats and vegetables for a memorable dinner. So let’s get to it!
Watch How To Make It
Crispy Golden Rosti, A Potato Lover’s Delight
Ingredients
- 4 medium potatoes
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- salt to taste
- pepper to taste
Instructions
- Grate the potatoes into thin shreds. Put them into an ice bath while you grate more potatoes.PRO TIP: Thin strips allow the heat to spread evenly, for a uniformly golden crispy surface.
- Let them soak in the ice bath for 10 minutes, then squeeze out excess moisture.PRO TIP: This helps remove excess starch and moisture, resulting in a crispier texture once cooked.
- Transfer the grated potatoes into a mixing bowl. Add in cornstarch and season generously with salt and pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute the seasoning.
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat then add the grated potatoes to the pan. Spread them evenly, forming a thick pancake-like shape.PRO TIP: Drizzle some oil along the sides for an extra crisp.
- Cook the Rosti for around 10 to 12 minutes each side, or until it’s golden brown and enjoy!PRO TIP: Resist the urge to flip too early. Allow the Rosti to cook on one side until it turns golden brown and crispy. Flipping it too early can disrupt the crust formation. Be patient and give it time to develop that crunch!
- Optional Step: Experiment with additional ingredients like grated onions or herbs for extra flavour. And for a twist, add a layer of grated cheese on top of the Rosti while it’s cooking to create a cheesy crust.