Get ready to elevate your Christmas dinner (or any special occasion!) with the ultimate crispy roast potato recipe, courtesy of Great British Bake Off star Ravneet Gill! This 33-year-old baking sensation has shared her secret for achieving perfectly fluffy insides and unbelievably crispy edges – and it all starts the day before.
Ravneet’s genius method involves parboiling the potatoes the night before. “I boil them the night before, let them cool, and then give them a good shake,” she explains. “The next day, when they’re completely cold, I roast them in hot goose fat in a deep roasting tray. It’s perfect every time!” While the standard recommendation is to parboil for 10-15 minutes, Ravneet’s overnight approach ensures exceptionally crispy results. This technique, she says, “guarantees really good potatoes with very, very crispy edges and a fluffier inside.” For those tackling a Christmas feast, this preparation method is a lifesaver, relieving the pressure of last-minute cooking chaos.
“When you’re doing it on the day,” Ravneet points out, “you’ve got so many other things to juggle. You can easily overboil, underboil, or even spoil your potatoes. Getting ahead relieves stress and ensures everything else is nice.” This year, Ravneet is adding another layer of efficiency to her approach. In partnership with Smart Energy GB, she’s experimenting with an air fryer for the first time. “Somebody told me they’d use their air fryer this year for potatoes, and I think I might try that too! I’m usually an oven person, but I’ve been exploring air fryers lately. It’s more energy-efficient, so it’s a great option.”
This shift to an air fryer highlights a broader trend of energy consciousness. New research reveals that 63% of people are aware of how their increased energy usage impacts household bills. Increased cooking time (61%), home heating (51%), and appliance use (46%) are significant contributors to higher energy consumption. Interestingly, a separate Smart Energy GB poll shows that households with smart meters report an average annual saving of £140 due to better cost monitoring.
Ravneet’s experience underscores this. “Whatever the cultural or religious celebration,” she observes, “spending time with loved ones, enjoying delicious food and drink, and maintaining yearly family traditions are common themes. I know firsthand about the rising energy demands of these festivities, but understanding simple swaps for energy efficiency and having a smart meter has lessened the pressure. The increased visibility from the in-home display lets me fully enjoy the celebrations, which is what it’s all about.” For more information on energy-saving tips and smart meters, search ‘Get a smart meter’ or visit SmartEnergyGB.com. So this Christmas, achieve perfectly crispy roast potatoes while being kind to your energy bills – thanks to Ravneet’s expert tips!
