Rapeseed farmers' potatoes

Serves 8

Use Mark's rapeseed farmers' potatoes as a base for a whole roasted fish such as a sea bream or bass (Jason Lowe)

This dish can be adapted in several ways to suit the occasion. Top the potatoes withf some grated hard cheese and make them in individual serving dishes for a simple starter or a light lunch snack with a tossed green salad. Omit the bacon and use the potatoes as a base for a whole roasted fish such as a sea bream or bass, or just serve it as an accompaniment to any main course.

For a vegetarian alternative, add instead either wild mushrooms and Parmesan or rosemary and garlic.

8 medium-sized waxy potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
150ml rapeseed oil
100g streaky bacon, finely diced
6 medium shallots, peeled and finely chopped
A few sprigs of thyme, leaves removed

Preheat the oven to 200C/gas mark 6.

Lightly brush an ovenproof dish or non-stick frying pan with a little rapeseed oil. Lay the sliced potatoes into the dish and build up the layers; season every couple of layers with salt and pepper and drizzle with a little more rapeseed oil, scattering with the bacon, shallots and thyme as you go.

Bake in the oven for 45-50 minutes, brushing the top with a little rapeseed oil every so often.