Albert Bartlett, the UK’s leading potato brand, has joined forces with Michelin-starred chef Stevie McLaughlin to unveil his expert guidance for crafting flawless festive potatoes. Whether households prefer crisp roast potatoes, indulgent dauphinois, smooth mash or flavour-packed sides, Chef Stevie’s seasonal advice will help cooks “bring out your best side” for family and guests.
10 Tips for Exceptional Christmas Potatoes
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Select the ideal potato variety: choose Albert Bartlett Original Rooster for roast potatoes and opt for Albert Bartlett Butter Gold for mash to achieve superior texture and flavour.
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Perfect your roast potatoes: avoid parboiling Roosters; instead, gently simmer them in unsalted water. Test for doneness using a thin skewer. Skip draining in a colander and transfer them with a slotted spoon to a cooling rack until the steam dissipates before placing them in hot oil or goose fat.
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Elevate your dauphinois: for a luxurious festive finish, add a spoonful of mascarpone to the garlic-infused milk and cream. Layer the potatoes high and top with freshly grated gruyere and a pinch of ground allspice.
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Achieve the ultimate mash: steam the potatoes and press them through a ricer. Combine with warm milk and plenty of butter for richness. For the smoothest finish, use a whisk to incorporate the butter.
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Prepare ahead: peel your potatoes the day before and store them in cold water to save precious time on Christmas Day.
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Season with purpose: create your own Christmas roast potato seasoning mix. Test it early so it is perfected by the big day. Chef Stevie’s family favourite blends flaky sea salt, dried sage and onion powder.
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Add festive aromatics: for fragrant roast potatoes, include rosemary sprigs, star anise and a cinnamon stick during the final 20 minutes of roasting. Finish with the zest of an orange or clementine before serving.
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Make use of the skins: repurpose potato peelings into crispy snacks. Season with smoked paprika and parmesan. For a homemade festive dip, loosen hummus with hot water and season with tahini, garlic and lemon juice, adding paprika and crispy shallots on top.
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Add a cheesy twist: enrich Christmas mash by mixing in mature cheddar, finely sliced spring onions and chopped chives for a classic cheese and onion combination.
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Finish with flair: complete your roast potatoes with smoked sea salt, crispy bacon pieces and a twist of black pepper.
Chef Stevie McLaughlin Says:
“The right potato brings out the best side of your Christmas menu. Your potato variety choice and which potato dishes to serve is right up there and as important as the turkey that you choose for your table too. With Albert Bartlett’s top quality and a touch of festive flair, you’re guaranteed delicious results every time”