Ham And Potatoes Sarladaise

1. 1

   Position the rack in the dead center of the oven and preheat it to 400F.

2. 2

   Peel the potatoes, then use a very sharp, thin knife to cut them into 1/4-inch-thick slices.

3. 3

   Its easier to slice them the short way, thereby producing rounds: but theyre more aesthetically pleasing sliced the long way for layering in the baking dish.

4. 4

   However, its troublesome to get those long slices.

5. 5

   Best alternative?

6. 6

   Slice a little off of one end, stand the potato up on your cutting board, and make the thin slices straight down.

7. 7

   Heat the lard in a very large skillet over medium-high heat.

8. 8

   Test it with one potato slice to make sure the oil bubbles when the potato is added.

9. 9

   But be careful: all that starch-laden water in the potato will pop and sputter in the hot oil.

10. 10

    (You might consider using a splatter screen, available at cookware stores and their online outlets.)

11. 11

    Add more slices in batches, and fry them until golden brown, turning occasionally, about 15 minutes per batch.

12. 12

    As the potato slices are finished, transfer them to a 9-by-13-inch baking dish.

13. 13

    Once all the potatoes have been fried and are in the pan, sprinkle them with the remaining ingredients and toss well.

14. 14

    Bake, tossing two or three times, until everything is crisp and aromatic, about 20 minutes.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.