Aromatic baked potatoes

Recipe: Aromatic baked potatoes, a delicacy that will delight your senses

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 1-2 hours (depending on the potatoes)
Total time: 1-2 hours and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 3 potatoes, enough for 3 people

The history of baked potatoes spans hundreds of years, being a simple and versatile dish that has won the hearts of food lovers around the world. These aromatic baked potatoes are an excellent choice for a family meal, especially when served alongside baked liver or other delicacies. Get ready to transform your kitchen into a sanctuary of flavors, as the inviting aroma will fill the entire room.

Ingredients:
- 3 potatoes (preferably new, for better texture)
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil (or sunflower oil)
- Salt
- Pepper
- Sweet paprika
- Fresh or dried rosemary (to taste)

Step by step:

1. Preparing the potatoes: Choose potatoes that are uniform in shape and have smooth skin. They will bake more evenly. Wash them well under running water to remove any impurities. Do not peel them, as the skin will add a delicious texture and essential nutrients.

2. Cutting the potatoes: Using a sharp knife, cut each potato vertically into thick slices of about 1 cm, but do not cut all the way through, leaving a 1 cm margin at the bottom. This technique will allow the flavors to penetrate between the slices, and the potatoes to bake evenly.

3. Adding the garlic: Between each slice, insert a thin slice of garlic (about one clove of garlic per potato). The garlic will infuse the potatoes with a savory taste.

4. Seasoning: In a lightly oiled pan, arrange the potatoes and brush them evenly with the remaining oil. Sprinkle salt, pepper, sweet paprika, and rosemary on top. If you like, you can also add other spices you enjoy, such as oregano or thyme, for a more complex flavor.

5. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180-200°C. Place the pan with the potatoes in the oven and let them bake. If you are using fresh, young potatoes, they may be ready in about an hour. If they are larger or older, it may take up to 2 hours. Check occasionally for tenderness by inserting a fork into the potatoes.

6. Serving: Once the potatoes are baked and golden, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. For an extra touch of flavor, sprinkle some cottage cheese or feta cheese on top for a creamy and delicious contrast.

Practical tips:
- You can experiment with different types of potatoes, such as sweet potatoes, for a healthier option and a different flavor.
- For a more attractive appearance, you can add thin slices of bell pepper or tomatoes between the potato slices before baking.
- If you don't have olive oil on hand, any vegetable oil will work, but olive oil adds a distinct flavor.
- Don't forget to check your oven; every oven bakes differently, so adjust the baking time according to your equipment's specifications.

Delicious combinations:
These aromatic baked potatoes are wonderful alongside a fresh salad or as a side dish for grilled meat. They also pair perfectly with a flavored yogurt sauce or garlic mayonnaise.

Nutritional benefits:
Potatoes are a good source of carbohydrates, vitamin C, and potassium, making them an excellent choice for a balanced diet. Garlic adds not only flavor but also benefits for the immune system, having antibacterial and antiviral properties.

Calories:
A serving of baked potatoes (approximately 1 medium potato) contains about 150 calories, depending on the oil used and the added spices.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use canned potatoes?
We recommend fresh potatoes, as canned ones do not have the same texture and flavor.

2. Can I prepare these potatoes in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the potatoes and bake them later. Make sure to cover them with plastic wrap.

3. What other spices can I use?
Experiment with herbs such as basil, sage, or even curry to give the dish an exotic touch.

I wish you success in preparing these aromatic baked potatoes! You will surely love them, and their aroma will make you eagerly await every meal! Enjoy!