Prepare Your Potatoes

Wash your potatoes thoroughly and pat them completely dry with a kitchen towel. Cut them into half-inch cubes, keeping the pieces as uniform as possible so they cook evenly. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness, so make sure they're really dry.

Parboil for Perfect Texture

Place the potato cubes in a pot of cold salted water and bring to a boil. Cook for exactly five minutes until they're just starting to soften but still hold their shape. Drain thoroughly and let them steam-dry in the colander for a few minutes.

Season Generously

Transfer the parboiled potatoes to a large bowl and toss with your seasonings—salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. This pre-seasoning ensures flavor throughout, not just on the surface.

Get Your Pan Screaming Hot

Heat a large cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Add enough oil to generously coat the bottom. Wait until the oil shimmers and moves easily across the pan before adding potatoes.

Achieve Golden Perfection

Add the seasoned potatoes in a single layer, making sure they're not crowded. This is crucial for crispiness. Let them cook undisturbed for four to five minutes until the bottoms develop a deep golden crust. Flip and repeat until all sides are beautifully browned.

Finish with Fresh Flavors

In the last two minutes of cooking, add minced fresh garlic and herbs. Toss gently to coat, allowing the garlic to become fragrant without burning. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.