Crunchy Parmesan Crusted Potatoes with Tobiko Gochujang Dip

Introduction

When I first made these Parmesan Crusted Potatoes with Tobiko Gochujang Dip, my family couldn’t stop raving about them. The combination of crispy, cheesy potatoes paired with a flavorful, spicy dip was a hit at the dinner table. Each bite is a delightful blend of textures and tastes that elevates a simple side dish into something truly special. Whether served as a snack, an appetizer, or a side dish for your main course, these potatoes bring an exciting twist that everyone will love.

Ingredients

For the Parmesan Crusted Potatoes:

• 2 pounds baby yellow or gold potatoes (about 16 baby potatoes)
• 1.5 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese (finely grated works best)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon grated garlic
• 1/4 cup Pecorino Romano, freshly grated
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper

For the Tobiko Gochujang Mayo:

• 1/4 cup Kewpie mayo (substitute option: regular mayonnaise)
• 1 teaspoon gochujang
• 1 tablespoon tobiko
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
• Fine sea salt to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare Potatoes: Wash and scrub the baby potatoes thoroughly, then dry them off with a towel. Slice each potato in half.
3. Make Parmesan Crust: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, olive oil, grated garlic, red chili flakes, Pecorino Romano, kosher salt, and cracked black pepper. Add the halved potatoes to the bowl and toss to coat all sides well with the marinade.
4. Bake Potatoes: Spread the grated Parmesan cheese onto the parchment paper. Place the potatoes cut-side down on top of the grated Parmesan. Brush any remaining marinade over the tops of the potatoes. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-50 minutes, or until the tops of the potatoes and the grated Parmesan turn a beautiful golden brown.
5. Make Tobiko Gochujang Mayo: In a small bowl, whisk together the Kewpie mayo, gochujang, tobiko, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and a pinch of fine sea salt to taste.
6. Serve: Serve the crispy Parmesan Crusted Potatoes alongside the Tobiko Gochujang Mayo. Garnish with additional tobiko if desired.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 350 calories

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve as a side dish with grilled meats or seafood.
• Enjoy as a savory snack or appetizer.
• Pair with a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Offer at parties as a fun finger food option.
• Drizzle with extra lemon juice for added freshness.

Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese yields the best flavor and texture.
2. Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of gochujang in the mayo according to your spice preference.
3. Experiment with Herbs: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the marinade for additional flavor.
4. Don’t Rush the Baking: Make sure the potatoes are cooked until golden brown for the best texture.
5. Check Potatoes for Doneness: Use a fork to check if they are tender inside before removing them from the oven.

Recipe Variations

• Herb-Infused Potatoes: Mix in dried or fresh herbs like oregano or basil for an aromatic touch.
• Sweet Potatoes: Substitute baby yellow potatoes with baby sweet potatoes for a sweeter flavor.
• Spicy Variation: Add more red chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the Parmesan mixture for extra heat.
• Vegan Option: Use vegan butter and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a dairy-free version.
• Different Dips: Experiment with different dips such as a garlic aioli or a spicy ranch dressing.

Serving Suggestions

• With Meat: Pair these potatoes with roasted chicken or grilled steak for a hearty meal.
• Vegetarian Feast: Serve alongside a variety of vegetable dishes for a vegetarian dinner spread.
• Garnish with Chives: Add chopped chives or green onions for a fresh touch.
• In a Platter: Arrange on a platter with dipping sauces for a stunning presentation at gatherings.
• As a Game Day Snack: Serve during game days with a selection of dips for guests to enjoy.

Freezing and Storage

These Parmesan Crusted Potatoes are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. While you can freeze them, the texture may change upon reheating.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes! Try using a mix of mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor.

2. What can I substitute for Kewpie mayo?
Regular mayonnaise works fine, but Kewpie adds a unique umami flavor.

3. How spicy is gochujang?
Gochujang is moderately spicy; adjust the amount based on your heat tolerance.

4. Can I make these potatoes ahead of time?
You can prepare the potatoes and the dip ahead of time, but they are best baked fresh.

5. What’s the best way to wash baby potatoes?
Scrub them under running water with a vegetable brush to remove dirt.

6. Can I bake these potatoes in an air fryer?
Yes, air-frying can achieve a similar crispy texture. Cook at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes.

7. What is tobiko?
Tobiko is fish roe (fish eggs) commonly used in sushi. It adds a briny flavor and crunchy texture.

8. Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?
Yes, ensure all ingredients, especially sauces, are gluten-free.

9. Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby potatoes?
Absolutely! Just cut them into bite-sized pieces and adjust the cooking time.

10. How do I store leftover Tobiko Gochujang Mayo?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Conclusion

These Parmesan Crusted Potatoes with Tobiko Gochujang Dip are not just a side dish; they’re a culinary experience that combines crunchy, cheesy goodness with a flavorful, spicy dip. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, this dish is sure to impress. With their delightful crunch and the umami-rich dip, they’re perfect for any occasion. So grab your ingredients, fire up the oven, and enjoy this delicious recipe with family and friends!

Print