Top and tail the potatoes, then cut in half, then with a small knife peel them (try to create a barrel shape). Slice the butter into 3mm pieces and arrange in the COLD frying pan, make sure the pan you use is oven proof.

Score a crosshatch pattern on the larger edge of each potato half (this is optional but gives a nice presentation effect). Lay the presentation side down on top of the butter. Arrange the thyme sprigs and season with salt and pepper.

Break the garlic cloves, add them to the pan and transfer to the stove over a medium heat.

Simmer in the butter until it starts to brown, do not allow it to burn, add the chicken stock, cover with baking paper

Place a spoon on top to prevent the paper blowing off in the fan oven, and roast at 200c for about 20 minutes. At this stage turn the potatoes over and baste before returning to the oven for another 15 minutes or so until cooked, test this by inserting a sharp knife.

You can serve these immediately,(or reheat the next day) they are perfect with just about any meat dish, of course replace the chicken stock for a vegetable one they'll be just as good (well almost?) these images are taken from my youtube channel feel free to watch it there. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y25SyB2Yza8