Name: Herbed Potato Roesti with Smoked Cheddar
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 pounds high-starch potatoes (such as russet, all-purpose, or Yukon gold), peeled, coarsely shredded, and patted dry; 3/4 teaspoon table salt; 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley leaves; 1 tablespoon minced fresh dill; 1 tablespoon minced fresh chives; 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (smoked)

Why This Recipe Works

Most roesti recipes suggested starting with boiled potatoes, so we were surprised when we found that raw potatoes made the best roesti, a moist cake with a thick, crisp crust and a buttery, fresh potato flavor. As an added benefit, raw potatoes were much easier to grate for our roesti recipe. Cooking the roesti over moderate heat was important because it ensured that the center would be tender by the time the crust had turned a crisp golden brown. A well-cooked crust helped to hold the pancake together when we turned it over.

Before You Begin

You can substitute the butter for olive oil in this recipe. If necessary, move the pan around on the burner to amake sure the crust browns evenly. The roesti is best served immediately, but it can be kept on a cooling rack. loosely covered in a warm oven.

Instructions

Melt butter in 10-inch nonstick or well-seasoned cast-iron skillet over medium heat.

Season shredded potatoes with salt and pepper. Add herbs and mix in thoroughly. Spread potatoes evenly; press with spatula to form compact cake. Cook until bottom crust is golden brown, pressing on potatoes occasionally with spatula, about 15 minutes.

Shake skillet or use spatula to loosen roesti. Place large plate or platter over skillet and carefully invert. Slide roesti back into skillet and cook until bottom is golden brown, 5 to 10 minutes. Add cheese and spread evenly; cover and cook until cheese melts, about 5 more minutes.Serve immediately.