The article discusses the preparation of Rösti, a traditional Swiss potato pancake dish. The author experiments with eight different methods to make Rösti, varying techniques such as parboiling, grating, rinsing, and baking.
The methods tested include:
1. Parboiling and grating potatoes
2. Using raw, grated potatoes
3. Rinsing grated potatoes to remove excess starch
4. Cutting potatoes into matchsticks instead of grating
5. Baking Rösti in the oven after browning the bottom
6. Adding fat to the grated potatoes before cooking
7. Using mealy potatoes (Russet) instead of waxy potatoes (Yukon Gold)
8. Combining methods and using a cast-iron skillet
The author concludes that while all methods produced edible results, some were better than others. The best method seemed to be a combination of rinsing and baking, which resulted in a crispy exterior and a non-slimy interior. The author also notes that using a mixture of Russet and Yukon Gold potatoes and cooking the Rösti in a cast-iron skillet produced a desirable texture and flavor.
Here are the key facts extracted from the text:
1. Rösti is a national dish of Switzerland, particularly in German-speaking Switzerland.
2. Rösti is a potato pancake made from potatoes, salt, and fat.
3. Parboiling potatoes can help dry them out, reducing the amount of excess water to squeeze out.
4. Raw potatoes have a higher water content than parboiled potatoes.
5. Rinsing grated potatoes can help remove excess starch.
6. Using a combination of rinsing and salting can help remove excess starch and dry out the potatoes.
7. Cutting potatoes into matchsticks can help them hold together better when cooked.
8. Using mealy potatoes (such as Russet potatoes) can result in a more crumbly interior.
9. Using waxy potatoes (such as Yukon Gold potatoes) can help them hold their shape when cooked.
10. Rösti can be cooked in a variety of ways, including pan-frying, baking, and flipping.
11. Using a cast-iron skillet can require more butter to prevent sticking.
12. A larger Rösti can take longer to cook and may require more time in the oven.
13. Rösti can be served with a variety of toppings, including eggs, sour cream, and dill.