Ingredients
Potatoes
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and sliced 1/4-inch thick
Cooking Fats
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
Vegetables and Herbs
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Seasonings and Liquids
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable stock (optional, for moisture, if needed)
Instructions
- Parboil the Potatoes: Place the sliced potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer for 5-7 minutes until the potatoes are just tender but not fully cooked. Drain and let cool slightly.
- Caramelize the Onions: Heat 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and caramelized. Season with a pinch of salt and set aside.
- Cook the Potatoes: In the same skillet, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the par-cooked potatoes in a single layer, working in batches if needed. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, flipping gently, until golden and slightly crispy. Transfer each batch to a plate.
- Combine Potatoes and Onions: Once all potatoes are cooked, return them to the skillet with the caramelized onions. Gently toss to combine. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of chicken or vegetable stock to moisten. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as desired.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the potatoes for a bright finishing touch. Serve immediately as a delicious side dish alongside roasted meats, fish, or poultry.
Notes
- Parboiling the potatoes ensures they cook evenly and develop a creamy interior while still crisping up beautifully when pan-fried.
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable stock or omit the stock entirely.
- Adjust the amount of butter and oil according to preference to control richness and crispiness.
- Fresh thyme is preferred for best flavor, but dried thyme works as a substitute.
- Use a heavy-bottomed skillet for more even heat distribution and better browning.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: French