Pommes Darphin

The Versatile Crispy Golden Potato Cake

Pommes Darphin is the epitome of French culinary elegance — a crisp, golden potato cake with a tender, buttery interior. Often compared to rösti or hash browns, this dish elevates the humble potato into something extraordinary, requiring just a few ingredients and a touch of finesse.

Pommes Darphin served with Smoked Ham, Whipped Cream Cheese, and Green Onions, photo by Francois de Melogue

Versatile and elegant, Pommes Darphin pairs beautifully as a side to a hearty roast or shines on its own when served with smoked ham and a fresh green salad. Its irresistibly crunchy exterior and velvety interior make it a celebration of simplicity at its finest.

Follow this step-by-step recipe to create a Pommes Darphin that’s as impressive as it is delicious!

Pommes Darphin

Prep Time 10 minutes, Cook Time 40 minutes, Servings 6

Ingredients

• ¼ cup fat (butter, olive oil, duck fat, or lard)
• 1 finely diced onion (optional)
• 2–3 garlic cloves, minced (optional)
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
• 2 pounds gold potatoes, shredded
• 1–2 teaspoons sea salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• A pinch of freshly grated nutmeg (optional)