Braised New Potatoes With Thyme: A Taste of Simple Elegance

The scent of thyme always transports me back to my grandmother’s garden. As a child, I would spend hours exploring its fragrant paths, and she would often send me on a mission to gather sprigs of fresh thyme for her simple, yet unforgettable, braised potatoes. The dish was a staple at our family gatherings, a comforting and flavorful testament to the magic of fresh, seasonal ingredients. Simple in its execution, it was always a favorite on the table, proving that you don’t need complicated techniques to create something truly special.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lbs small red new potatoes
• 3/4 cup 98% fat free no salt added canned chicken broth (Vegetable broth can be substituted to make this dish fully vegetarian)
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves

Equipment Needed

• Medium saucepan
• Colander (for draining)
• Mixing bowl

Instructions

1. Begin by thoroughly scrubbing the potatoes until they are clean. You don’t need to peel them; the delicate skin of new potatoes is part of their charm and nutritional value.
2. Place the scrubbed potatoes into a medium saucepan.
3. Pour the chicken broth (or vegetable broth) over the potatoes, ensuring they are almost covered. If the broth doesn’t quite cover them, add additional water until the potatoes are just barely submerged.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, immediately reduce the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer.
5. Simmer the potatoes until they are tender when pierced with a fork, usually about 12 to 15 minutes. The exact cooking time will depend on the size of your potatoes. Start checking for doneness around 12 minutes.
6. Once the potatoes are tender, carefully drain them using a colander. Be sure to drain all the liquid.
7. Return the drained potatoes to the same saucepan.
8. Add the olive oil and fresh thyme leaves to the saucepan.
9. Gently toss the potatoes to evenly coat them with the olive oil and thyme. Make sure that the potatoes are uniformly coated for optimum flavor distribution.
10. Transfer the braised potatoes to a serving bowl and serve immediately.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Don’t overcook the potatoes: Overcooked potatoes can become mushy. Aim for a tender but firm texture. Check for doneness frequently.
• Use fresh thyme: The flavor of fresh thyme is far superior to dried thyme. If using dried thyme, reduce the amount to 1 teaspoon.
• Brown the potatoes: For a richer flavor, you can brown the potatoes after draining them. After tossing with olive oil, return them to the saucepan over medium-high heat and cook for a few minutes, turning occasionally, until lightly browned.
• Salt: Remember that the recipe specifies no-salt-added broth. Taste the potatoes after cooking and add salt to taste as needed.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with infusing the olive oil before adding it to the potatoes. Gently heat the olive oil with the thyme leaves in a small pan for a few minutes, allowing the herb’s aroma to meld with the oil. Strain the oil before using.
• Uniform Sizing: When selecting your new potatoes, aim for similar sizes. This ensures even cooking, preventing some potatoes from being overcooked while others remain underdone.
• Enhance with Garlic: For a deeper flavor, add a clove or two of minced garlic to the olive oil when tossing the potatoes. The garlic will infuse the potatoes with its pungent aroma, elevating the dish to a new level of deliciousness.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve these braised new potatoes immediately as a side dish alongside grilled meats, roasted chicken, or fish. They are also a delicious addition to a vegetarian meal.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or water to prevent them from drying out. These potatoes are best enjoyed fresh, so freezing is not recommended, as it can alter their texture.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	110.8 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	N/A	17%
Total Fat	1.9 g	2%
Saturated Fat	0.3 g	1%
Cholesterol	0.3 mg	0%
Sodium	203.3 mg	8%
Total Carbohydrate	20.2 g	6%
Dietary Fiber	2.5 g	10%
Sugars	1 g	4%
Protein	3.7 g	7%

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Variations & Substitutions

• Herb Variations: While thyme is classic, feel free to experiment with other herbs. Rosemary, oregano, or parsley would all be delicious.
• Garlic and Herb Butter: After draining the potatoes, toss them with a mixture of melted butter, minced garlic, and your favorite herbs.
• Spicy Potatoes: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the olive oil for a touch of heat.
• Lemon Potatoes: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and some lemon zest to the potatoes along with the thyme and olive oil. This brightens the flavor and adds a zesty twist.
• Roasted Garlic Variation: Instead of tossing the potatoes with plain olive oil, use roasted garlic oil for a more intense and sweet garlic flavor. Simply roast a head of garlic, mash the cloves, and infuse them into warm olive oil before tossing with the potatoes.
• Creamy Variation: For a richer dish, add a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche to the potatoes after tossing with olive oil and thyme.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use dried thyme instead of fresh thyme?
A: Yes, you can, but fresh thyme provides a more vibrant and nuanced flavor. If using dried thyme, reduce the amount to 1 teaspoon.

Q: Do I need to peel the new potatoes?
A: No, peeling is not necessary. The skin of new potatoes is thin and tender, and it adds texture and nutrients to the dish. Just make sure to scrub them thoroughly.

Q: Can I use a different type of potato?
A: While this recipe is designed for new potatoes, you can use other small potatoes like fingerling potatoes. Avoid using large, starchy potatoes, as they will not cook as evenly.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the potatoes ahead of time up to the point of tossing them with olive oil and thyme. Store the drained potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, toss with olive oil and thyme and reheat gently.

Q: What can I serve with these braised new potatoes?
A: These potatoes are a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses, such as grilled steak, roasted chicken, baked fish, or vegetarian options like lentil loaf or tofu scramble.

Final Thoughts

Braised new potatoes with thyme are a testament to the beauty of simplicity. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile, making it a perfect addition to any meal. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the delightful combination of tender potatoes and fragrant thyme. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and seasonings to create your own unique twist. And most importantly, enjoy the process of cooking and sharing this delicious dish with your loved ones. Bon appétit!