Step 1

Heat the oven to 200C (180C fan)/390F/gas 6.

Step 2

Scale up the ingredients depending on how many portions of potatoes you want. Put the potatoes on a baking tray, then half crush them with the palm of your hand (or use the back of a large spoon) so they split open but just about still hold together. Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil to taste, toss to coat and roast for about 45 minutes, until the potatoes start to crisp up and turn golden brown.

Step 3

Meanwhile, make an optional seasoning from various storecupboard ingredients, again scaling up the quantities according to how many you’re cooking for. In a small bowl, mix the crushed garlic, lemon zest, spices and herbs.

Step 4

Once the potatoes have had their 45 minutes, scatter the seasoning over the top, toss again and return to the oven for a final 15 minutes, until the potatoes are nice and crisp. Finish with a generous seasoning of sea salt and serve immediately.