Frequently Asked Questions
What are Herb-Infused Crushed New Potatoes?
They are a side dish featuring tender, buttery new potatoes boiled with aromatics like garlic, thyme, and bay leaves, then lightly crushed and finished with butter.
What ingredients are needed for the infusion?
The infusion uses halved garlic heads, large bay leaves, fresh thyme sprigs, chicken bouillon, and salt.
How many new potatoes are used?
The recipe calls for 14 ounces of new potatoes.
What is the cooking time for the potatoes?
The potatoes should be simmered for approximately 20 minutes until they are fork-tender.
How do I prepare the garlic?
You should take 2 garlic heads and cut them in half before adding them to the boiling water.
How much water should I use?
Use 3.5 pints of water, or enough to completely cover the potatoes in the saucepan.
What herbs are included in this recipe?
The recipe uses 2 large bay leaves and 20 sprigs of fresh thyme.
Should I use dry or fresh thyme?
The recipe specifically recommends using 20 sprigs of fresh thyme for the best flavor infusion.
What type of bouillon is required?
You will need 1 teaspoon of dry chicken bouillon.
How much salt is used during the boiling process?
The recipe requires 1.5 ounces of salt to be added to the water while boiling the potatoes.
What are the instructions for crushing the potatoes?
Lightly crush the cooked potatoes using a fork or a potato masher, ensuring they remain chunky rather than smooth.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
No, the potatoes should be scrubbed and washed thoroughly but kept unpeeled to showcase their texture.
When should I add the butter?
Add the butter after the potatoes have been drained and lightly crushed, while they are still warm.
What kind of butter is recommended?
The recipe calls for 3.5 ounces of cubed unsalted butter.
What are the final seasonings used?
The dish is finished with 0.5 teaspoons of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of white pepper.
Can I use black pepper instead of white pepper?
While white pepper is specified for a clean look, you can substitute black pepper if you prefer the flavor.
How do I know when the potatoes are done?
The potatoes are ready when they are fork-tender, which usually takes about 20 minutes of simmering.
What should I do after draining the potatoes?
After draining, you must discard the garlic halves, bay leaves, and thyme sprigs used during the boiling process.
Is this recipe considered easy to make?
Yes, it is described as an easy side dish recipe that is perfect for any occasion.
What is the texture of the finished dish?
The texture should be chunky and crushed, showcasing the tender and buttery essence of the new potatoes.
How many garlic heads are needed?
The recipe uses 2 whole garlic heads, both cut in half.
Can I adjust the salt levels?
Yes, the final 0.5 teaspoons of salt used for seasoning can be adjusted to your personal taste.
What should I discard after boiling?
You should discard the garlic, bay leaves, and thyme sprigs after the infusion is complete.
How many bay leaves are used?
The recipe requires 2 large whole bay leaves.
Is this a vegetarian dish?
Although it is tagged as vegetarian, the recipe includes chicken bouillon; you may use vegetable bouillon for a strictly vegetarian version.
How do I serve these potatoes?
Serve them warm, either as a companion to meat dishes or enjoyed simply on their own.
What is the first step in the recipe?
The first step is to scrub and wash the new potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt.
Can I use a potato masher?
Yes, a potato masher or a fork can be used to lightly crush the potatoes.
How much butter is required?
The recipe calls for 3.5 ounces of unsalted butter.
What is the purpose of the chicken bouillon?
The chicken bouillon adds an extra layer of savory flavor to the potatoes as they simmer.