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Sides

Brunede Kartofler (Caramelized Potatoes)

The Quirky Foodster Team

(0)
10 min
Prep
25 min
Cook

Ingredients

  • 1 kg (2.2 lb) small new potatoes
  • 100 g (1/2 cup) sugar
  • 75 g (5 tbsp) butter
  • Pinch of salt

Method

  1. Boil the potatoes in salted water until just tender, then peel while still warm and set aside.
  2. In a wide, dry frying pan, melt the sugar over medium heat until it turns a light amber caramel, watching closely to avoid burning.
  3. Add the butter to the caramel and stir until fully combined and glossy.
  4. Add the peeled potatoes to the pan and gently roll them to coat evenly in the caramel-butter glaze.
  5. Continue cooking for 8-10 minutes, shaking the pan occasionally, until the potatoes are deeply golden and glossy all over.

Introduction: Small boiled potatoes glazed in butter and sugar until deeply caramelized, brunede kartofler are an essential accompaniment to flæskesteg and are considered non-negotiable at the Danish Christmas Eve table.

Cultural Background: Small boiled potatoes glazed in butter and sugar until deeply caramelized, brunede kartofler are an essential accompaniment to flæskesteg and are considered non-negotiable at the Danish Christmas Eve table.

Tips: Use small, waxy potatoes of similar size so they glaze evenly. Keep the caramel moving constantly once it starts to colour, as it can burn quickly.

Variations: A splash of cream stirred into the caramel gives a softer, toffee-like glaze. Some cooks add a pinch of ground cinnamon for a subtle warmth. Naturally vegetarian; use a plant-based butter alternative to make it vegan.

Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Reheating: Reheat gently in a covered pan over low heat, adding a small knob of butter to loosen the glaze.

Nutrition: Approx. 260 kcal, 3g protein, 10g fat, 40g carbohydrates per serving.

FAQs

Q: Why did my sugar seize instead of caramelizing?
A: This usually happens if the heat is too high or the pan isn't fully dry; melt the sugar slowly and evenly for a smooth caramel.

Q: Can I make this in advance?
A: It's best made shortly before serving so the glaze stays glossy, though leftovers reheat reasonably well.