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What Can I Use Instead Of Semolina For The Perfect Roast Potatoes?

Asked by Parasol. Answered on 21st January 2026

Full question

Hello, I have a question. I would like to try to make the Perfect Roast Potatoes but I would need them to be gluten-free. I wondered if there was a recommended substitution for the semolina? Thank you!

Perfect Roast Potatoes
Photo by Lis Parsons
Perfect Roast Potatoes
By Nigella
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Our answer

Nigella's Perfect Roast Potatoes (from NIGELLA CHRISTMAS) have the perfect combination of a soft, fluffy interior and a golden, crispy exterior. This comes from a combination of parboiled potatoes, very hot fat and a little semolina to add crunch.

If you can't use semolina then polenta would be a good substitute, is gluten free and has a nice golden colour. If neither of these are available then you can omit the semolina part of the coating and just make sure that you give the parboiled potatoes a really good shake in the saucepan to completely rough up the surfaces as it is the slight fuzz on the outside of the potatoes that becomes particularly crunchy during roasting.

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