One of my favorite childhood memories involves the comfort of home-cooked meals shared with family around the dinner table. Growing up, Sundays were always a special day in our household. After a morning spent at church, we would gather in the kitchen, each contributing to a meal that felt as much about connection as it was about nourishment. My mother would often experiment with different flavors, blending the sweet with the savory in a way that made every bite a delightful surprise.
One such creation that has become a beloved family tradition is these Golden Syrup and Bacon Roast Potatoes. The combination of crispy potatoes, rich bacon, and the subtle sweetness of golden syrup creates a dish that is both comforting and unique. The inspiration for this recipe actually comes from a trip to the English countryside I took with my husband many years ago. We stayed in a quaint little bed and breakfast where the owners served us a breakfast that featured the most amazing roasted potatoes—crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and just a hint of sweetness that I couldn’t quite place.
Determined to recreate that taste when we returned home, I experimented with various ingredients until I landed on golden syrup as the perfect complement to the savory bacon. The result was a dish that quickly became a favorite at family gatherings, especially during the holiday season. There’s something magical about the way the syrup caramelizes on the potatoes, creating a golden, crispy coating that contrasts beautifully with the salty crunch of bacon.
Whenever I make these Golden Syrup and Bacon Roast Potatoes, I’m transported back to that cozy English bed and breakfast, and I’m reminded of the warmth of family and the joy of discovering new flavors together. It’s a recipe that speaks to the heart as much as to the stomach—a perfect blend of memories and taste that I’m thrilled to share with you. Whether you’re preparing it for a family feast or simply looking to add a touch of warmth to your weeknight dinners, I’m sure these roast potatoes will become a cherished part of your culinary repertoire, just as they have in mine.
Making Golden Syrup and Bacon Roast Potatoes
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Ingredients
- 2.2 pounds of medium potatoes, peeled and halved
- 2.6 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 4 strips of streaky bacon, finely diced
- 1/4 cup of golden syrup
- Fresh rosemary sprigs, for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. Place the peeled and halved potatoes in a large pot, cover them with water, and bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, lower the heat and let the potatoes simmer for about 5 minutes, until they are slightly tender but not fully cooked.
- Drain the potatoes well and return them to the pot. Add the olive oil, cover with the lid, and shake the pot vigorously to roughen the surfaces of the potatoes.
- Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a large baking sheet, ensuring they do not touch. Roast in the oven for 1 hour, turning them halfway through the cooking time until they become golden and crispy.
- While the potatoes are roasting, cook the diced bacon in a skillet over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes until it turns crispy and the fat is rendered. Stir in the golden syrup until evenly coated.
- Once the potatoes are perfectly roasted, remove them from the oven and toss them with the bacon and syrup mixture. Season with sea salt flakes and garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs if desired.
- Serve immediately while hot and enjoy!
Storing Suggestion
Store any leftover roast potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the potatoes soggy.
Cooking Tips
If you prefer a less sweet flavor, you can reduce the amount of golden syrup or substitute it with honey or maple syrup. For extra crispiness, use a metal baking sheet, which helps conduct heat more effectively.
Serving Suggestions
These roast potatoes pair wonderfully with roasted meats, especially chicken or pork. Serve them alongside a green vegetable like steamed broccoli or a fresh salad to balance out the richness.
Ingredient Substitutions
If streaky bacon isn’t available, you can use pancetta or even turkey bacon for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and replace the golden syrup with a drizzle of olive oil infused with smoked paprika for added flavor.
Seasonal Variations
During the fall, try adding a handful of chopped chestnuts or some roasted root vegetables like carrots and parsnips to the roasting tray. In the spring, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or tarragon along with the rosemary for a lighter, more fragrant dish.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains pork (bacon) and is naturally gluten-free. For a dairy-free option, ensure that the bacon used does not contain any added dairy products. To make it vegetarian or vegan, omit the bacon and use plant-based substitutes for the golden syrup, such as agave syrup or a vegan honey alternative.
FAQ:
Can I make these potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can parboil the potatoes and roughen them ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator, then roast them just before serving for maximum crispiness.
What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?
Starchy potatoes like russets or Yukon Gold are ideal for this recipe because they become fluffy on the inside and crispy on the outside when roasted.
How can I make the potatoes extra crispy?
To achieve extra crispy potatoes, make sure they are thoroughly dried after parboiling, and use a metal baking sheet for roasting. Also, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet.
Can I use maple syrup instead of golden syrup?
Yes, maple syrup is a good substitute for golden syrup and will add a slightly different but delicious flavor to the dish.
How do I prevent the bacon from burning?
To prevent the bacon from burning, cook it over medium heat and watch it closely. Stir frequently once you add the golden syrup to ensure it doesn’t stick or burn.
Can I freeze the cooked potatoes?
It’s not recommended to freeze these roast potatoes, as they can become mushy when thawed and reheated. It’s best to enjoy them fresh or store them in the refrigerator for a few days.
Golden Syrup and Bacon Roast Potatoes
Ingredients
- 2.2 pounds of medium potatoes peeled and cut in half
- 2.6 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 4 strips of streaky bacon finely diced
- 1/4 cup of golden syrup
- Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. Place the potatoes in a large saucepan, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat and cook for about 5 minutes until the potatoes are just starting to soften. They should be slightly tender when pierced.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pan. Add the olive oil, cover the pan, and shake it to roughen the potatoes. Arrange the potatoes in a single layer on a large baking sheet, making sure they don't touch. Bake for 1 hour, turning halfway through, until they are crispy and golden brown.
- While the potatoes are baking, cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes, or until the bacon becomes crispy and the fat is rendered. Stir in the golden syrup until well combined.
- Once the potatoes are done, toss them with the bacon mixture. Season with sea salt flakes and add fresh rosemary if desired. Serve right away.
