04 Mar 2025
Cook time 60 min
Prep time 30 min
Ingredients:
5 potatoes
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tsp ground nutmeg
1/4 cup butter
Pommes Anna is a classic French dish that showcases the simple elegance of potatoes. Thinly sliced potatoes are layered with butter and olive oil, seasoned with a hint of nutmeg, and then baked to a crisp, golden perfection. This structured yet delicate dish is a perfect accompaniment to any meal or can be enjoyed on its own as a delightful indulgence.
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Peel the potatoes and slice them very thinly using a mandoline or a sharp knife. Aim for slices that are about 1/8 inch (3mm) thick.
2. Melt the Butter:
- In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the 1/4 cup (54g) of butter. Once melted, remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
3. Layer the Potatoes:
- In an ovenproof skillet (preferably non-stick with a diameter of about 9-10 inches), start arranging the potato slices in concentric circles. Start from the outside and work your way towards the center, overlapping each slice slightly.
- Once the first layer is complete, lightly brush it with a mixture of olive oil and melted butter. Sprinkle a small pinch of the ground nutmeg over the layer.
4. Continue Layering:
- Repeat the process, creating additional layers of potatoes, brushing each layer with the olive oil and butter mixture, and sprinkling with nutmeg until all potatoes are used. Press down on the potatoes occasionally to ensure they are tightly packed and even.
5. Cook on Stovetop:
- Place the skillet on the stovetop over medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes. This helps the bottom layer of potatoes to start crisping up and getting golden brown.
6. Bake in the Oven:
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and crispy. You can test for doneness by sticking a knife through the center; it should glide through easily.
7. Rest and Serve:
- Once baked, remove the skillet from the oven and let the Pommes Anna rest for about 5 minutes. To serve, you can invert it onto a serving plate or cut it directly from the skillet. If desired, garnish with a bit of fresh herbs or a sprinkle of sea salt.
8. Enjoy:
- Serve warm as a delicious side dish to your favorite main course. Bon appétit!
Tips:
- Choose firm, starchy potatoes like Yukon Gold or Russet for the best texture.
- Use a mandoline to ensure uniformly thin potato slices for even cooking.
- Arrange the potato slices in a circular pattern for an aesthetically pleasing presentation.
- Press down on the potatoes with a spatula occasionally during baking to ensure even layers.
- Finish the dish under the broiler for a few minutes if you want a crispier top.
Pommes Anna exemplifies the beauty of simple ingredients treated with care and attention. Its golden, buttery layers have made it a beloved dish for generations. By following these tips and the recipe carefully, you can create a stunning and delicious dish that will impress family and friends alike.