There’s a special joy that comes with transforming simple ingredients into something extraordinary, especially when potatoes are involved. Imagine slicing russet potatoes so thin they practically whisper into a bowl of rich cream and seasoned salt. With each layer, I can feel the anticipation brewing. This is not just a dish; it’s a true indulgence in the world of home cooking.
Potato Pave is the kind of appetizer that draws guests to the table, their eyes widening at the golden squares waiting to be devoured. You wouldn’t believe that these elegant-looking bites, perfectly fried and topped with flaky salt and fresh chives—or even caviar if you’re feeling fancy—are crafted from humble potatoes.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a luxurious side for a cozy night in, this decadent recipe has your back. It’s about celebrating comforting flavors while impressing your loved ones, all without a heap of stress in the kitchen. Let’s dive into the indulgent world of Potato Pave and create a dish that truly captivates the senses!
Why is Potato Pave a Must-Try?
Indulgence at Its Finest: This Potato Pave transforms ordinary ingredients into a luxurious masterpiece, showcasing the magic of potatoes layered with cream.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for gatherings, these golden squares are as eye-catching as they are delicious, captivating your guests with every bite.
Effortless Elegance: With straightforward techniques, you’ll impress everyone without feeling overwhelmed in the kitchen.
Versatile Topping Options: Dress them up with caviar or keep it simple with chives—this dish adapts to any occasion.
Rich, Comforting Flavor: The creamy, crispy texture of Potato Pave tantalizes taste buds, proving that comfort food can also be sophisticated.
Potato Pave Ingredients
• Create your delicious Potato Pave with these essential ingredients!
For the Potato Layers
- Russet Potatoes – The starchy texture of russets is perfect for layering in this dish; Yukon golds can provide a creamier alternative.
- Butter – Adds richness to every bite; olive oil can be a lighter substitute if desired.
- Seasoned Salt – Enhances the natural flavors of the potatoes; feel free to use regular salt mixed with herbs for added zest.
For the Cream Mixture
- Cream – Binds the layers together with its rich, velvety texture; half-and-half can lighten it up if preferred.
- Olive Oil – Essential for frying, giving that golden crispiness; any neutral cooking oil will work if you’re out of olive oil.
For the Garnish & Topping
- Chives – Provides a fresh, mild onion flavor when sprinkled on top; green onions can be a great substitute.
- Creme Fraiche – Adds a tangy creaminess that elevates the dish when served; sour cream can be used as an alternative.
- Caviar – Offers an optional luxurious touch that impresses; flavored fish roe can stand in for caviar if you’d like.
How to Make Potato Pave
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Prep Potatoes: Start by washing, peeling, and slicing your russet potatoes thinly with a mandolin for consistent layers. Place the slices into a mixing bowl with rich cream and sprinkle in seasoned salt—it’s the perfect foundation for your decadent dish!
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Set Up Baking Dish: Line a loaf tin with parchment paper, creating an overhang for easy removal later. This step ensures your Potato Pave will come out beautifully without any fuss.
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Layer Potatoes: Begin layering the potato slices in the tin, adding about 1 tablespoon of cubed butter and a pinch of salt and pepper every two layers. Continue until all the potato slices are used.
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Cover and Bake: Fold the parchment over the potatoes neatly, cover the tin with foil, and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for approximately 90 minutes, or until the potatoes are very soft.
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Press and Chill: Once baked, place a piece of thin cardboard on top of the potatoes, cover, and weigh it down with cans. Refrigerate for at least 12 hours to help it set properly, which allows for easy slicing later.
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Cut and Fry: After chilling, carefully cut the potato slab into squares. Heat olive oil in a pan and fry these squares until they are golden brown, about 3-4 minutes on each side, achieving that lovely crispy texture.
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Serve: Transfer the fried squares to a serving plate and top them with flaky salt, a dollop of creme fraiche, and a sprinkle of chives. For a touch of luxury, add caviar if you’re feeling fancy!
Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Potato Pave
Perfect Potato Slices: Make sure the potato slices are uniform in thickness using a mandolin to ensure even cooking and layering.
Chilling Time is Key: Don’t rush the chilling process; letting the dish set for at least 12 hours helps achieve the best texture for Potato Pave.
Watch the Frying: Keep a close eye on the frying process; adjust the heat as necessary to prevent burning and achieve a golden and crispy exterior.
Press Firmly: When weighing down the cardboard, press firmly without crushing the potatoes. This ensures well-formed, compact slices that hold together beautifully.
Garnish Wisely: Top with flaky salt and fresh herbs to amplify the flavors; consider trying different combinations like green onions or flavored fish roe for variation.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Potato Pave ahead of time is a game changer for busy cooks! You can assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance; just layer the potatoes, butter, and cream in the loaf tin, then cover tightly and refrigerate. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake the Potato Pave, weigh it down, and chill for at least 12 hours before frying. To maintain quality, ensure that you wrap it well to prevent drying out. When it’s time to enjoy, cut and fry the squares until golden brown for that crispiness, providing you with indulgent results with minimal last-minute effort!
What to Serve with Potato Pave?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing this luxurious dish with complementary flavors and textures.
- Crisp Green Salad: A refreshing blend of mixed greens drizzled with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pave.
- Herbed Sour Cream: Serve alongside this creamy dip for added tang; it enhances every crispy bite beautifully.
- Seared Scallops: These delicate seafood morsels add elegance and a contrasting flavor that pairs gorgeously with the potatoes.
- Sparkling White Wine: A glass of bubbly wine elevates your meal, providing a delightful contrast to the creamy texture of the potatoes.
- Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears tossed with olive oil bring freshness and a slight crunch, complementing the softness of the pave.
- Truffle Oil Drizzle: A subtle drizzle over the dish adds an earthy, gourmet touch that will truly impress your guests.
- Roasted Cherry Tomatoes: These juicy little gems burst with flavor, adding a sweet contrast that brightens up the indulgent potatoes.
- Rich Mushroom Gravy: A savory, umami-rich sauce poured over the pave deepens the flavors and adds an irresistible warmth.
- Chocolate Mousse: End the meal with this light, airy dessert that serves as a delightful, sweet contrast to the savory pave.
- Classic French 75 Cocktail: This refreshing mix of gin, champagne, and lemon adds a bubbly, sophisticated finish to your luxurious meal.
How to Store and Freeze Potato Pave
Fridge: Keep leftover Potato Pave in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze sliced and fried Potato Pave in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until crispy, avoiding the microwave to prevent sogginess.
Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the Potato Pave up to a day in advance, refrigerate unbaked, and fry just before serving for the best results.
Potato Pave Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to play around with this recipe and make it your own; it’s all about celebrating the potatoes!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute cream with full-fat coconut milk for a rich, dairy-free option that still embraces creaminess.
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Cheesy Layers: Add Gruyère or cheddar cheese between potato layers for a delightful cheesy twist that elevates flavor.
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Herb-Infused: Enhance flavors by mixing fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the cream mixture for aromatic depth.
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Spicy Kick: Spice things up by sprinkling red pepper flakes or adding a dash of hot sauce to the cream before layering.
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Vegetable Boost: Mix in thinly sliced leeks or sautéed mushrooms between the layers for added flavor and texture.
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Smoked Elements: Top with smoked salmon instead of caviar for a coastal touch, creating an indulgent brunch option.
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Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or walnuts over the finished dish for a delightful contrast in texture.
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Seasoned Variations: Experiment with different flavored salts, like garlic or herb-infused varieties, to switch up the seasoning profiles.
Potato Pave Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best russet potatoes for my Potato Pave?
Absolutely! Look for russet potatoes that are firm and have smooth skin. Avoid any with dark spots, wrinkles, or signs of sprouting. The size doesn’t matter much, but larger potatoes will usually yield more even slices when using a mandolin.
What’s the best way to store leftover Potato Pave?
Very straightforward! Store leftover Potato Pave in an airtight container in the fridge, and it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat it in the oven to preserve its crispiness rather than using the microwave.
Can Potato Pave be frozen, and if so, how?
You can freeze it! First, slice and fry the Potato Pave as you normally would. Then, lay the squares in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 2 hours until solid. Afterward, transfer the pieces to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in an oven preheated to 350°F for 10-15 minutes until they’re crispy.
What if my Potato Pave isn’t getting crispy while frying?
Don’t worry; this happens sometimes! Make sure your oil is hot enough (around 350°F) before adding the squares—this will help them fry properly. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan; fry in batches if necessary to ensure they cook evenly. Let them rest on a paper towel after frying to remove excess oil for a crispier finish.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of when serving Potato Pave?
Yes, keep in mind that Potato Pave is quite rich due to cream and butter, making it high in calories. If serving guests with dietary restrictions, consider offering alternative toppings like flavored fish roe as a substitute for caviar or using olive oil instead of butter to achieve a lighter version. Always check for allergies to dairy or specific toppings among your guests!
Irresistible Potato Pave: A Luxurious Comfort Food Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prep Potatoes: Start by washing, peeling, and slicing your russet potatoes thinly with a mandolin for consistent layers. Place the slices into a mixing bowl with rich cream and sprinkle in seasoned salt.
- Set Up Baking Dish: Line a loaf tin with parchment paper, ensuring an overhang for easy removal later.
- Layer Potatoes: Begin layering the potato slices in the tin, adding about 1 tablespoon of cubed butter and a pinch of salt and pepper every two layers. Continue until all the potato slices are used.
- Cover and Bake: Fold the parchment over the potatoes neatly, cover the tin with foil, and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for approximately 90 minutes, or until the potatoes are very soft.
- Press and Chill: Once baked, place a piece of thin cardboard on top of the potatoes, cover, and weigh it down with cans. Refrigerate for at least 12 hours to help it set properly.
- Cut and Fry: After chilling, carefully cut the potato slab into squares. Heat olive oil in a pan and fry these squares until they are golden brown, about 3-4 minutes on each side.
- Serve: Transfer the fried squares to a serving plate and top them with flaky salt, a dollop of creme fraiche, and a sprinkle of chives. Add caviar for a luxurious touch!
