The art of grilling is not just limited to burgers and steaks. With a little creativity, you can turn even the humblest of vegetables into a show-stopping side dish. Hasselback potatoes, with their unique accordion-like appearance, are a perfect candidate for grilling. In this article, we’ll take you through the process of cooking Hasselback potatoes on the grill, from preparation to plating.
What are Hasselback Potatoes?
Before we dive into the grilling process, let’s take a brief look at what Hasselback potatoes are. This Swedish dish, named after the Hasselbacken restaurant in Stockholm, consists of thinly sliced potatoes that are fanned out to resemble a accordion. The slices are not cut all the way through, allowing the potato to remain intact. This unique cutting style allows for even cooking and a beautiful presentation.
Choosing the Right Potatoes
Not all potatoes are created equal when it comes to grilling Hasselback potatoes. You’ll want to choose potatoes that are high in starch, like Russet or Idaho potatoes. These varieties will yield a crispy outside and a fluffy inside. Avoid using waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes, as they will not produce the same results.
Preparing the Potatoes
Before you start grilling, you’ll need to prepare your potatoes. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Wash the potatoes thoroughly and dry them with a paper towel.
- Cut a thin slice off the bottom of each potato to create a stable base.
- Place the potato on a cutting board and slice it into thin layers, making sure not to cut all the way through. You can use a mandoline or a sharp knife to get even, thin slices.
- Use a spatula or a spoon to gently fan out the slices, taking care not to break them.
Grilling the Potatoes
Now that your potatoes are prepared, it’s time to fire up the grill. Here’s a step-by-step guide to grilling Hasselback potatoes:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F).
- In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Brush the mixture onto both sides of the potatoes, making sure to get some oil in between the slices.
- Place the potatoes on the grill, cut side down.
- Close the lid and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the potatoes start to develop a nice char.
- Flip the potatoes over and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until they’re cooked through and crispy on the outside.
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Grill Marks
Grill marks can make or break the presentation of your Hasselback potatoes. Here are a few tips for achieving the perfect grill marks:
- Make sure the grill is hot before adding the potatoes. You should see a sizzle when the potatoes hit the grill.
- Don’t move the potatoes too much. Let them cook for a few minutes on each side to develop a nice char.
- Use a grill mat or a piece of aluminum foil to prevent the potatoes from sticking to the grill.
Adding Flavor to Your Hasselback Potatoes
While the natural sweetness of the potatoes is delicious on its own, you can add some extra flavor to take your Hasselback potatoes to the next level. Here are a few ideas:
- Garlic and herbs: Mix some minced garlic and chopped herbs (like rosemary or thyme) into the olive oil mixture before brushing it onto the potatoes.
- Cheese: Sprinkle some grated cheese (like Parmesan or cheddar) onto the potatoes during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Bacon: Crumble some cooked bacon onto the potatoes before serving.
Other Toppings to Try
The toppings you can use on Hasselback potatoes are endless. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Sour cream and chives
- Diced tomatoes and basil
- Sliced scallions and crumbled blue cheese
- Roasted garlic aioli
Serving and Plating
The final step is to serve and plate your Hasselback potatoes. Here are a few tips for making a beautiful presentation:
- Use a spatula to carefully transfer the potatoes to a plate or platter.
- Add your desired toppings and garnishes.
- Drizzle with a little extra olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Pairing Hasselback Potatoes with Other Grilled Dishes
Hasselback potatoes are a versatile side dish that can be paired with a variety of grilled meats and vegetables. Here are a few ideas:
- Grilled steak with a horseradish sauce
- Roasted chicken with a side of grilled asparagus
- Grilled salmon with a lemon-herb butter
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While grilling Hasselback potatoes is a relatively straightforward process, there are a few common mistakes to avoid:
- Cutting the potatoes too thinly, which can cause them to fall apart on the grill.
- Not brushing the potatoes with enough oil, which can cause them to stick to the grill.
- Overcooking the potatoes, which can make them dry and unappetizing.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If you encounter any issues while grilling your Hasselback potatoes, don’t panic. Here are a few troubleshooting tips:
- If the potatoes are sticking to the grill, try brushing them with a little more oil or using a grill mat.
- If the potatoes are not cooking evenly, try rotating them 90 degrees to ensure even cooking.
- If the potatoes are not developing a nice char, try increasing the heat or cooking them for a few more minutes.
By following these tips and techniques, you’ll be well on your way to creating delicious, grilled Hasselback potatoes that are sure to impress your friends and family. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or just starting out, this unique side dish is sure to become a new favorite.
What are Hasselback potatoes and how do they differ from regular potatoes?
Hasselback potatoes are a type of potato dish that originated in Sweden. They are made by slicing a potato very thinly, but not all the way through, so that the slices are still connected at the bottom. This allows the potato to fan out and cook evenly, creating a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior. Unlike regular potatoes, Hasselback potatoes are not cut into wedges or slices, but rather remain intact, with the slices opening up like a fan.
The unique cutting style of Hasselback potatoes allows for even cooking and a beautiful presentation. When cooked, the slices of the potato separate slightly, creating a delicate and crispy texture on the outside, while the inside remains soft and fluffy. This makes Hasselback potatoes a popular side dish for many meals, especially during the summer months when grilling is a popular cooking method.
What type of potatoes are best suited for grilling Hasselback potatoes?
The best type of potatoes for grilling Hasselback potatoes are high-starch potatoes, such as Russet or Idaho potatoes. These types of potatoes have a dry, fluffy interior that will yield a crispy exterior when grilled. They also have a mild flavor that will absorb the smoky flavor of the grill. Avoid using waxy potatoes, such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes, as they will not yield the same crispy texture.
High-starch potatoes are ideal for grilling because they have a low moisture content, which allows them to cook evenly and crisp up on the outside. They also have a neutral flavor that will not overpower the other ingredients in the dish. When choosing potatoes for grilling, look for ones that are high in starch and have a rough, brown skin.
How do I prepare Hasselback potatoes for grilling?
To prepare Hasselback potatoes for grilling, start by washing and drying the potatoes thoroughly. Then, slice the potatoes very thinly, but not all the way through, so that the slices are still connected at the bottom. You can use a mandoline or a sharp knife to get even, thin slices. Next, brush the potatoes with oil and season with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices.
Once the potatoes are sliced and seasoned, you can add any additional toppings or fillings, such as cheese, bacon, or chives. Be careful not to overload the potatoes, as this can make them difficult to cook evenly. Finally, place the potatoes on a piece of aluminum foil or a grill mat, and they are ready to be grilled.
What is the best way to grill Hasselback potatoes?
The best way to grill Hasselback potatoes is to cook them over medium-low heat, either directly on the grill grates or on a piece of aluminum foil. If cooking directly on the grill, place the potatoes cut-side down and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the slices start to separate and the bottom is crispy. Then, flip the potatoes over and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the other side is crispy and the potatoes are cooked through.
If cooking on aluminum foil, place the potatoes in the center of the foil and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are cooked through and the slices are crispy. You can also add wood chips or chunks to the grill to give the potatoes a smoky flavor. Regardless of the cooking method, make sure to keep an eye on the potatoes and adjust the cooking time as needed.
How do I know when Hasselback potatoes are cooked through?
Hasselback potatoes are cooked through when they are tender and the slices are crispy. You can check for doneness by inserting a fork or knife into the potato. If it slides in easily, the potato is cooked through. You can also check the internal temperature of the potato, which should be at least 190°F (88°C).
Another way to check for doneness is to look for visual cues. When the potatoes are cooked through, the slices will be crispy and golden brown, and the potato will be slightly puffed up. You can also check the texture of the potato by gently squeezing it. If it feels soft and yielding, it is cooked through.
Can I make Hasselback potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Hasselback potatoes ahead of time, but it’s best to cook them just before serving. You can slice and season the potatoes up to a day in advance, but it’s best to cook them just before serving to ensure they are crispy and hot. If you need to cook the potatoes ahead of time, you can cook them until they are almost done, then finish them off on the grill just before serving.
If you do need to make the potatoes ahead of time, make sure to store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook them. You can also cook the potatoes in the oven instead of on the grill, which can be a good option if you need to make them ahead of time. Simply cook the potatoes in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and crispy.
What are some variations of Hasselback potatoes that I can try?
There are many variations of Hasselback potatoes that you can try, depending on your tastes and preferences. Some ideas include adding cheese, bacon, or chives to the potatoes for extra flavor. You can also try using different types of potatoes, such as sweet potatoes or Yukon Golds, for a different flavor and texture.
Another variation is to add some heat to the potatoes by sprinkling them with red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños. You can also try using different herbs and spices, such as garlic, rosemary, or thyme, to give the potatoes a unique flavor. Finally, you can try serving the potatoes with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of chives for added flavor and texture.