Pan fried sugar-coated potatoes - Classic danish receipe
Save for later
Foodplanner Pinboard

Sugar-coated potatoes

Sugar-coated potatoes in a pan – Recipe for sugar-coated potatoes in a pan with asparagus potatoes, sugar and butter. Sugar-coated potatoes are a must to serve as a side dish for Christmas dinner. In my family we always have sugar-coated potatoes, regular white potatoes, duck, roast pork, red cabbage, a fresh red cabbage salad and of course the good Christmas sauce. It is always my grandmother who is responsible for the sugar-coated potatoes, she is a master at them.

Sugar-coated potatoes in a pan

It is actually quite easy to make browned potatoes, if you just follow the recipe slavishly and arm yourself with patience. Browned potatoes actually only consist of 3 ingredients: Potatoes, sugar and butter. The sugar must be dissolved in the pan, after which the butter is added and stirred until it has melted. Then the potatoes are added, which “cook” together with the caramel. The sugar-coated potatoes can be left in the caramel over low heat while the rest of the Christmas meal is being prepared.

Sugar-coated potatoes: a unique danish delight

Sugar-coated potatoes, known as “brunede kartofler” in Denmark, are a whimsical and delightful treat that holds a special place in Danish holiday traditions. These sweet confections are not made from actual potatoes but are instead sugar-coated marzipan shaped to resemble small potatoes, creating a playful and visually appealing dessert.

The process of making sugar-coated potatoes begins with marzipan, a sweet almond paste that is kneaded and shaped into small, oval forms that mimic the appearance of real potatoes. Once shaped, the marzipan is rolled in a mixture of powdered sugar and cocoa powder, giving it a delicate, sweet coating that resembles the earthy texture of potatoes. The result is a charming treat that is as fun to look at as it is to eat.

These sugary delights are often enjoyed during the Christmas season and are a popular choice for decorating festive tables or as gifts. Their unique appearance and sweet flavor make them a conversation starter at holiday gatherings, delighting both children and adults alike.

Sugar-coated potatoes embody the creativity and playfulness of Danish confectionery. They are a wonderful example of how traditional ingredients can be transformed into something whimsical and festive, adding joy and sweetness to the holiday celebrations. Whether enjoyed as a treat or shared with loved ones, brunede kartofler are a cherished part of Danish culinary heritage.

Also try my recipe for pork roast and my mother’s red cabbage. Enjoy!

Sugar-coated potatoes in a pan

Recipe for 4 persons
Prep 20 mins
Cook 20 mins
Total +1 hr

Ingredients

Instructions

Wash the potatoes thoroughly. Cut a small cross in the peel. Put the potatoes in a pot and cover them with water. Add 2 tsp. salt. Bring the water to a boil.

When the water boils, boil the potatoes for approx. 15 min. (it depends on the size of the potatoes, they should just be tender but firm all the way through when you poke them with a knife).

Pour the water from the potatoes and immediately pour cold water over them. Then peel the potatoes. Here you can either use the potatoes immediately or put them in a container and refrigerate until needed.

Put the sugar on the pan so that it covers the pan in a thin layer. Turn the pan on medium heat and let the sugar melt slowly. Do not stir the sugar. When the sugar has turned into a golden caramel, add the butter, which should melt and fizz. Stir the butter until it is a smooth mass, where the butter no longer fizzes.

Now pour the cold potatoes into the pan and let them stand in the caramel over medium heat. Tilt the pan occasionally so that the potatoes are turned – they are easily damaged and chopped if you use a palette knife. You can turn the potatoes carefully with a wooden spatula.

Be patient and let the potatoes stand until they are browned and glazed all over and are well heated through. After that, the potatoes are ready to serve. Enjoy!

Rate

Asparagus potatoes vs. potatoes in a glass jar

In my family, we always use boiled and peeled asparagus potatoes when making the browned potatoes on Christmas Eve. We think they taste best when you cook them yourself. You can certainly use them in a glass jar, but you have to be aware that they must be completely dry before you put them in the pan. If they are not completely dry, they may “pop”.

Good tips for perfect results with sugar-coated potatoes

  • The potatoes must be cold and not wet when added.
  • The sugar must be completely dissolved before adding the butter.
  • It is important to give yourself plenty of time so that the potatoes have time to caramelize all the way around.

 

 

Please write a comment

Write a comment