Crispy Vesuvio Potatoes: Best Roasted Side Dish Ever

The Ultimate Crispy Vesuvio Potatoes Recipe: Authentic Italian Flavor!

Are you searching for the perfect potato side dish that combines crispy exteriors with tender, flavorful centers? Look no further than these irresistible crispy Vesuvio potatoes! This Chicago-inspired Italian classic features golden-brown potatoes roasted to perfection and infused with a delicious blend of garlic, herbs, and white wine. Furthermore, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about making restaurant-quality Vesuvio potatoes at home.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a kitchen novice, this easy Vesuvio potatoes recipe is guaranteed to become your new favorite side dish. Additionally, I’ll share professional tips for achieving that perfect crispy exterior while maintaining a fluffy, tender interior that will have your dinner guests begging for seconds.

The Rich History and Origin of Vesuvio Potatoes

Vesuvio potatoes are a beloved Italian-inspired dish that has deep roots in Chicago’s culinary landscape. Named after Mt. Vesuvius in Italy, this potato recipe features chunks of potatoes that are first par-boiled, then roasted until they develop a gloriously crispy exterior while maintaining a creamy texture inside. Moreover, what makes these potatoes truly special is the flavorful sauce of garlic, olive oil, white wine, and herbs that coats each piece.

There’s also theories about the exact origin of the dish. Some believe it was created by Italian immigrants who settled in Chicago in the early 20th century. On the other hand, an unsubstantiated rumor claims the dish first appeared on the antipasto menu along with its counterpart Vesuvio chicken at Salerno’s Pizza in the Riverside area. Salerno’s famous rib lover’s menu featured these potatoes as a hearty side dish that quickly gained popularity throughout the city.

Key Characteristics of Perfect Vesuvio Potatoes

What makes vesuvio potatoes stand out from other roasted potato recipes? First of all, they feature a perfect balance of textures – crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Secondly, they’re generously seasoned with garlic, oregano, and sometimes thyme. Additionally, the inclusion of white wine in the cooking process creates a delicious white sauce that adds a remarkable depth of flavor.

Unlike mashed potatoes or a simple potato salad, Vesuvio potatoes hold their shape while absorbing all the wonderful flavors of the sauce. Furthermore, they’re versatile enough to complement nearly any main course, from vesuvio chicken to various other Italian dishes.

The PERFECT Crispy Vesuvio Potatoes Recipe

Now let’s dive into making the best crispy Vesuvio potatoes you’ll ever taste! This relatively simple dish delivers incredible flavors with basic ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.

Essential Ingredients for Authentic Vesuvio Potatoes

• 2 pounds Yukon gold potatoes (russet potatoes work too)
• 6-8 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/2 cup white wine
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh oregano (or 2 teaspoons dried)
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Equipment Needed for Perfect Results

• Large pot for parboiling
• Colander for draining
• Large oven-safe skillet or baking sheet
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Vesuvio Potatoes

Prepare the potatoes:

First, wash 2 pounds of potatoes thoroughly. You can peel them or leave the skin on for extra texture. Next, cut the potatoes into even-sized chunks, about 1.5-2 inches in size. For consistent cooking, ensure all pieces are approximately the same size.

Parboil for the perfect texture:

Place the cut potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add 1 tablespoon of salt to the water. Bring to a boil over medium heat and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the potatoes are just beginning to soften but still firm. Consequently, this parboiling step is crucial for achieving that perfect texture.

Drain and rough up:

Drain the potatoes in a colander and then return them to the hot pot. Shake the pot vigorously to rough up the surface of the potatoes – this creates more surface area that will get crispy during roasting!

Preheat oven:

Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it’s properly heated when you’re ready to roast.

Prepare the flavorful base:

In a large oven-safe skillet, heat 1/4 cup olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the white wine and allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Season the potatoes:

Add the parboiled potatoes to the skillet and stir gently to coat the potatoes with the garlic and wine mixture. Season with salt and pepper, oregano, and thyme if using. Toss to coat evenly.

Roast to perfection:

Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 30-35 minutes, turning the potatoes halfway through. The potatoes should become golden brown and crispy.

Add the finishing touches:

Remove from the oven and add the lemon juice. Toss gently to incorporate. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a beautiful color contrast and fresh flavor.

Professional Tips for Achieving Maximum Crispiness

To get truly crispy Vesuvio potatoes, here are some game-changing tips and tricks:

1. Choose the right potatoes: Starchy potatoes like Yukon Gold or Russet work best as they achieve that perfect balance of crispy exterior and fluffy interior. Red potatoes or baby potatoes can work too, but they’ll have a different texture.
2. Don’t skip the parboiling: Parboiling softens the potatoes and helps create a starchy coating on the outside that crisps up beautifully. Furthermore, placing the potatoes in cold water before bringing to a boil ensures even cooking from inside out.
3. The roughing up step is essential: After draining, give those potatoes a good shake in the pot to rough up the outsides. These rough edges are what get extra crispy!
4. Make sure oil is hot: When you add the potatoes to the skillet, the oil should be hot enough that you hear a sizzle. This immediate reaction helps form that crispy exterior.
5. Don’t overcrowd the pan: Arrange the potatoes in a single layer with some space between them. Consequently, overcrowding leads to steaming rather than roasting, which prevents crispiness.
6. High heat is your friend: Roast at a high temperature (425°F) to achieve that golden-brown exterior.
7. Let the potatoes roast undisturbed: Resist the urge to stir too frequently. Let them develop a crusty bottom before turning.

Delicious Variations of Vesuvio Potatoes

One of the best things about this Italian-inspired potato dish is how versatile it can be. Here are some creative variations to try:

Vesuvio Potatoes with Rich Gravy

For an extra indulgent version, you can create a thicker sauce by adding a tablespoon of flour to the oil and garlic before adding the wine. Whisk continuously until smooth, then proceed with the recipe as normal. Additionally, you might want to add a splash of chicken or vegetable broth for more depth of flavor.

Healthier Vesuvio Potatoes Option

To make a lighter version, reduce the olive oil to 2 tablespoons and increase the lemon juice slightly. You can also use less salt and compensate with more herbs for flavor. Moreover, consider adding nutritious vegetables like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes during the last 15 minutes of roasting.

Spicy Vesuvio Potatoes with a Kick

For those who enjoy heat, add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes along with the garlic, or incorporate a diced jalapeño. You might also try adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a different flavor dimension with some heat.

Vegan-Friendly Vesuvio Potatoes

This dish is naturally vegan-friendly! However, you can enhance it further by adding nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. Additionally, incorporate some caramelized onions for extra sweetness and depth.

Creative Twist: Oreganata Potatoes

For a variation similar to the popular oreganata style found in Italian cuisine, increase the oregano and add breadcrumbs to the potatoes before the final roasting stage. The breadcrumbs will toast and add an extra crunchy layer.

This Italian-inspired dish has become a staple in Chicago’s restaurant scene for decades

Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions

Vesuvio potatoes are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with many main dishes. Here are some classic serving suggestions:

Complementary Main Dishes

• Vesuvio chicken (the classic pairing)
• Grilled or roasted fish
• Italian sausages
• Roast beef or steak
• Vegetarian options like stuffed bell peppers or portobello mushrooms

Wine Pairings for Vesuvio Potatoes

The garlic and herb flavors in these potatoes pair wonderfully with medium-bodied white wines like Pinot Grigio or Vermentino. For red wine lovers, a light Chianti or Sangiovese works beautifully with the savory flavors. Additionally, the wine in the recipe itself creates a nice harmony with the same variety in your glass.

The generous use of fresh garlic not only adds incredible flavor but also provides numerous health benefits.

Presentation Tips for Maximum Appeal

For a restaurant-quality presentation, serve the potatoes in the same skillet they were roasted in, garnished with fresh herbs. Alternatively, transfer to a warm serving dish and sprinkle with extra virgin olive oil and fresh herbs just before serving. The golden, crispy exterior with specks of green herbs creates a visually appealing side dish.

Storage and Reheating Your Crispy Vesuvio Potatoes

Made too much? No problem! Vesuvio potatoes store and reheat surprisingly well if you follow these tips:

Proper Storage Methods

Allow the potatoes to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to a month, although the texture may change slightly.

Best Reheating Techniques to Maintain Crispiness

To reheat and maintain that wonderful crispy texture, avoid using the microwave which will make them soggy. Instead, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and spread the potatoes on a baking sheet. Drizzle with a tiny bit of olive oil and reheat for 10-15 minutes until hot and crispy again. Furthermore, you can also reheat them in an air fryer for 3-5 minutes for excellent results.

Troubleshooting Common Vesuvio Potato Problems

Even experienced cooks sometimes run into issues. Here are solutions to common problems when making vesuvio potatoes:

Potatoes Not Getting Crispy?

If your potatoes aren’t crisping up, there could be several reasons:

• The oven temperature might be too low
• The potatoes might be overcrowded
• You might not have dried them thoroughly after parboiling
• The parboiling step might have been too long, making them too soft

Solution: Make sure to thoroughly dry the potatoes after parboiling, arrange them with plenty of space between pieces, and ensure your oven is properly preheated to a high temperature.

Sauce Too Thin or Evaporating?

If your sauce is too thin or evaporating too quickly:

• You might need to add less wine or reduce it more before adding the potatoes
• Your oven might be too hot
• The pan might be too shallow

Solution: Let the wine reduce more before adding the potatoes, or use a deeper baking dish that will retain more of the sauce. You can also add a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with cold water to thicken the sauce if needed.

Potatoes Sticking to the Pan?

If your potatoes are sticking:

• You might not have used enough oil
• The pan might not be properly seasoned
• You might be turning them too early

Solution: Ensure you use enough oil to coat the bottom of the pan, and don’t try to turn the potatoes until they’ve developed a crust. Additionally, using a well-seasoned cast iron pan or a non-stick baking sheet can help.

Frequently Asked Questions About Vesuvio Potatoes

What are potatoes Vesuvio?

Potatoes Vesuvio are an Italian-American dish particularly popular in Chicago, featuring chunky potatoes roasted with garlic, olive oil, white wine, and herbs until crispy on the outside and tender inside. The dish is named after Mt. Vesuvius because the pile of roasted potatoes somewhat resembles the famous volcano.

What does Vesuvio mean in cooking?

In cooking, “Vesuvio” typically refers to a style of preparation that involves roasting with garlic, white wine, olive oil, and herbs. The term originated in Italian-American cuisine and is most commonly associated with chicken and potatoes. The name references Mt. Vesuvius in Italy, suggesting food that is piled high or has a distinctive shape.

What is the secret to crispy roast potatoes?

The secret to crispy roast potatoes lies in several key steps: First, choose starchy potatoes like Yukon Gold or Russet. Second, parboil them briefly before roasting. Third, rough up the surfaces after parboiling to create more surface area. Fourth, ensure the oil is very hot before adding potatoes. Finally, roast at a high temperature (425°F or higher) without overcrowding the pan.

Why do soaking potatoes make them crispy?

Soaking potatoes in cold water before cooking helps remove excess starch from the surface, which prevents them from sticking together and allows them to crisp up better during roasting. The water draws out the starch, resulting in a drier surface that can form a crispier exterior when exposed to hot oil and high heat.

What is the meaning of Vesuvio?

Vesuvio is the Italian name for Mount Vesuvius, the famous volcano near Naples, Italy, that erupted in 79 AD and destroyed the Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum. In culinary terms, dishes named “Vesuvio” often feature a mound or pile of food (usually potatoes and/or chicken) that resembles the shape of the volcano.

What is the French name for fried potatoes?

The French name for fried potatoes is “pommes frites” or simply “frites,” which are similar to what Americans call French fries. However, there are various French potato preparations including “pommes de terre sautées” (pan-fried potatoes) and “pommes Anna” (layered and roasted potatoes) that share similarities with Vesuvio potatoes.

What to put on potatoes to make them crispy?

To make potatoes crispy, coat them with olive oil or duck fat, which conduct heat well. Additionally, sprinkling a little cornstarch or semolina on parboiled potatoes can help create an extra-crispy exterior. Using kosher salt rather than table salt also helps draw out moisture from the surface, leading to better crisping.

Using high-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the Mediterranean flavor profile of these potatoes.

Does soaking potatoes in vinegar make them crispier?

Yes, soaking potatoes in vinegar (typically a solution of vinegar and water) can help make them crispier. The acid in vinegar helps strengthen the potato’s exterior by breaking down pectin, resulting in a firmer crust when cooked. A brief 10-minute soak in a solution of one part vinegar to six parts water can make a noticeable difference.

What happens if I don’t soak potatoes before frying?

If you don’t soak potatoes before frying or roasting, they may retain excess starch on their surface. This can cause them to stick together during cooking and potentially steam rather than crisp. Additionally, the extra starch might burn before the potatoes cook through, resulting in unevenly cooked potatoes with less crispy exteriors.

Why do restaurants soak potatoes before frying?

Restaurants soak potatoes before frying to remove excess starch, which helps achieve the perfect texture – crispy on the outside and fluffy inside. Furthermore, soaking ensures consistent cooking and prevents the potatoes from darkening. This professional technique is especially important when preparing large batches of potatoes to maintain quality.

Why does cornstarch make fries crispy?

Cornstarch makes fries crispy because it forms a thin coating that dehydrates quickly in hot oil or the oven, creating a crisp exterior layer. The starch molecules bind with water in the potatoes and then gelatinize at high temperatures, creating a rigid structure that maintains its crispness. it essentially creates a thin, crispy shell around each potato piece while allowing the inside to stay tender and fluffy.

What vinegar is best for potatoes?

White distilled vinegar is typically best for soaking potatoes to enhance crispiness because it has a neutral flavor that won’t overpower the potatoes. However, apple cider vinegar can also be used and will impart a slight apple flavor that pairs well with potatoes. For Vesuvio potatoes specifically, you might consider a splash of white wine vinegar to complement the wine in the recipe.

For more detailed information about the origin and traditional preparation of this dish, see our deep dive into Vesuvio Potatoes: Best Easy Side Dish.

Elevate Your Italian-Inspired Cooking with Crispy Vesuvio Potatoes

Mastering the art of making crispy Vesuvio potatoes opens up a world of delicious possibilities for your home cooking. This relatively simple dish delivers impressive results that will elevate any meal from ordinary to extraordinary. Moreover, the combination of golden-brown crispy exteriors and tender, flavorful centers makes these potatoes irresistible to anyone lucky enough to try them.

Whether you’re serving these alongside a Sunday roast, pairing them with vesuvio chicken for an authentic Chicago-Italian experience, or simply enjoying them on their own, these potatoes are guaranteed to impress. Furthermore, the versatility of this recipe allows you to adjust the flavors and ingredients according to your preferences while maintaining the essential characteristics that make Vesuvio potatoes special.

By following the tips and techniques outlined in this guide, you’ll achieve restaurant-quality results in your own kitchen. Additionally, you’ll gain valuable skills that can be applied to many other potato recipes, enhancing your cooking repertoire.

So why not give this crispy Vesuvio potatoes recipe a try tonight? Your taste buds will thank you, and this dish might just become your new go-to potato side dish for years to come. Don’t forget to share your results in the comments below – I’d love to hear how your potatoes turned out!

Recipe Card: Perfect Crispy Vesuvio Potatoes

Crispy Vesuvio Potatoes

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

• 2 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, cut into 1.5-2 inch chunks
• 6-8 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/2 cup white wine (dry white wine works best)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh oregano, chopped (or 2 teaspoons dried)
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wash and cut the potatoes into evenly sized chunks, about 1.5-2 inches.
3. Place potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add 1 tablespoon of salt to the water.
4. Bring to a boil over medium heat and cook for 5-7 minutes until partially tender but still firm.
5. Drain the potatoes thoroughly and return to the hot pot. Shake vigorously to rough up the surfaces.
6. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
7. Add white wine to the skillet and simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
8. Add the parboiled potatoes to the skillet and gently toss to coat with the garlic and wine mixture.
9. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme (if using). Toss again to coat evenly.
10. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 30-35 minutes, turning once halfway through, until potatoes are golden brown and crispy.
11. Remove from the oven and add the lemon juice. Toss gently to incorporate.
12. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Notes

• For extra crispy potatoes, make sure to thoroughly dry them after parboiling and don’t overcrowd the pan.
• If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, transfer the potatoes and sauce to a baking dish before putting in the oven.
• These potatoes pair perfectly with roasted chicken, fish, or as part of an Italian-inspired feast.

Nutrition Information (per serving, based on 6 servings)

• Calories: 220
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Protein: 3g
• Sodium: 410mg
• Fiber: 3g

Potatoes are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals when prepared with healthy cooking methods.

This crispy Vesuvio potatoes recipe first gained popularity on TikTok but has roots in traditional Chicago-Italian cuisine. The technique of parboiling before roasting ensures the perfect texture every time!

Looking to explore more regional potato recipes? After mastering this classic, try our Louisiana Smothered Potatoes: Cajun Sausage Feast for a taste of southern comfort food at its finest.