Duchess Potatoes

Duchess Potatoes with Mozzarella Recipe: Gourmet Delight at Home

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 10-20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

In every kitchen, there are dishes that blend simplicity with refinement, and duchess potatoes are among them. This classic potato side dish has deep roots in culinary history, originating from luxurious preparations served in palaces. With a creamy texture and elegant appearance, duchess potatoes are perfect for impressing at any meal, from special occasions to everyday dinners. Plus, with the addition of mozzarella, the flavor becomes even more delicious!

Ingredients:
- 1 kg of peeled potatoes
- 150 g of unsalted butter (ideally with 82% fat)
- 1 egg
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- Water for boiling the potatoes
- 80 g mozzarella (optional, but recommended for added flavor)

Ingredient tips:
The right potatoes for this recipe are of the "floury" type, which mash well and have a light texture. Varieties like Russet or Yukon Gold are ideal. Using unsalted butter allows you to better control the salt level in the dish. Mozzarella will add a creamy note and delicious taste, but you can experiment with other types of cheese, such as goat cheese or parmesan, to vary the recipe.

Step by step for a perfect result:

1. Preparing the potatoes:
Start by cutting the potatoes into quarters. This will help them cook evenly. Place them in a large pot, cover with cold water, and add a teaspoon of salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat until soft, about 15-20 minutes. You can check if they are done by piercing them with a fork – if it goes in easily, they are ready!

2. Preheating the oven:
While the potatoes are boiling, preheat the oven to 200°C. This step is essential for achieving the perfect meringues with a golden, crispy crust.

3. Mashing the potatoes:
After draining the potatoes well, place them in a large bowl and mash them with a potato masher until they become a fine paste. It is important that there are no large chunks for a uniform texture. Add the diced butter and mix well until it melts completely and is incorporated.

4. Adding the ingredients:
Let the mixture cool slightly before adding the egg and yolks. These will help bind the mixture and create a light texture. Add salt and pepper to taste. If you want to enhance the flavor, you can also add a pinch of nutmeg or garlic powder.

5. Shaping the meringues:
Prepare a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Use a piping bag to form the meringues. You can make them in the shape of spirals or circles, depending on your preference. Make sure to leave space between each meringue, as they will puff up slightly during baking.

6. Baking:
Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy on the outside. If you chose to add mozzarella, sprinkle it on top of the meringues before baking and leave them in the oven for 15-20 minutes, until the mozzarella melts and becomes slightly browned.

Serving suggestions:
Duchess potatoes with mozzarella are delicious both warm and cold. You can serve them as a side dish alongside a juicy steak or grilled fish. They are also perfect as an appetizer, accompanied by a garlic yogurt sauce or a spicy tomato sauce.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use sweet potatoes? Yes, you can replace regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a sweeter and colorful variant.
- How can I store duchess potatoes? They can be kept in the freezer after baking and cooling completely. You can reheat them in the oven to regain their crispiness.
- What is the calorie count for one serving? One serving of duchess potatoes contains approximately 250 calories, with a high carbohydrate content, but also healthy fats from the butter.

Nutritional benefits:
Potatoes are an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, providing long-lasting energy. They are also rich in vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, contributing to healthy digestion. Mozzarella adds protein and calcium, essential for bone health.

Possible variations:
In addition to mozzarella, you can experiment with various cheeses or spices. For a spicy note, add a little paprika or finely chopped chili. You can also add fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill, for an extra flavor boost.

With this recipe for duchess potatoes with mozzarella, you will not only create a delicious side dish but also add a touch of refinement to your meal. So, fill your kitchen with aromas and colors, and your friends and family will be impressed by your culinary talent! Bon appétit!