French fries

French Potatoes with Eggs and Cheese - A Culinary Indulgence

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 6-8 servings

French potatoes are a dish that evokes the warmth and comfort of a family meal. This recipe, with simple and easily found ingredients, transforms potatoes and eggs into a creamy and savory delight. The origins of this dish are lost in the mists of time, but it is clear that it has been celebrated in numerous kitchens as a symbol of conviviality. Our dish is perfect for a quick dinner or a festive meal.

Ingredients

- 6 large potatoes (about 1.5 kg)
- 10 eggs
- 450 g cow cheese (or cottage cheese)
- 18 tablespoons of sour cream
- 100 g butter
- 100 ml milk

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

1. Cleaning and boiling the potatoes: Start by peeling the potatoes. Choose new potatoes, as they have a more delicate texture and sweeter taste. Cut them into slices about 1 cm thick. Boil them in a pot of salted water for 10-15 minutes until they are slightly soft but not fully cooked. Drain and let them cool.

2. Boiling the eggs: Place the eggs in a pot of cold water and bring them to a boil. Boil for 15 minutes. Once done, immediately transfer them to cold water to stop the cooking process. After a few minutes, peel and slice them.

Step 2: Assembling the Dish

1. The base layer: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Take a baking dish and start by arranging a first layer of potato slices on the bottom. Make sure to evenly cover the entire surface.

2. Adding the eggs: Place a layer of sliced boiled eggs over the potatoes. Use a slicer to get even slices. This step not only looks good but also helps in evenly distributing the flavor.

3. The cheese layer: Grate 150 g of cow cheese and sprinkle it evenly over the eggs. The cheese will contribute to a rich and creamy flavor.

4. The butter and sour cream: Add 30 g of sliced butter and 6 tablespoons of sour cream on top. These ingredients will provide extra flavor and a velvety texture.

5. Repeating the layers: Continue adding layers of potatoes, eggs, cheese, butter, and sour cream just like in the previous step. Repeat until all ingredients are used, making sure to finish with a layer of potatoes.

6. The final layer: On top, add the last slices of butter (40 g) and 6 tablespoons of sour cream. Pour 100 ml of milk over everything to make the dish more moist and flavorful.

Step 3: Baking

1. Covering and baking: Place the lid on the baking dish and put it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes at 180°C.

2. Browning the cheese: After 30 minutes, remove the lid and allow it to bake for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until the cheese on top becomes golden and crispy.

Step 4: Serving

1. Cooling and slicing: Once the dish is ready, let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing. This will help maintain the beautiful shapes.

2. Serving: Serve warm, with a spoonful of sour cream on top for an extra creaminess.

Useful Tips

- Vegetarian option: You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms between layers for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Cheese alternative: Instead of cow cheese, you can use feta or mozzarella to change the flavor profile.
- Cook in advance: This dish is ideal for making ahead of time. You can prepare it a day in advance and reheat it before serving.

Nutritional Benefits

This French potato recipe is rich in protein due to the eggs and cheese, providing an excellent source of calcium and vitamins. Potatoes are a good source of complex carbohydrates, essential for energy. The sour cream and butter add healthy fats, but it is best to consume the dish in moderation, considering the caloric content.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen potatoes?
Yes, but the texture will be different. Make sure to fully thaw and drain them well before cooking.

2. What can I use instead of sour cream?
You can replace sour cream with Greek yogurt or a vegan alternative for a lighter version.

3. How can I store leftovers?
The dish can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. It can be reheated in the oven or microwave.

Combining with Other Dishes

French potatoes pair wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a lightly spiced tomato sauce. A bottle of white wine or a refreshing cider will perfectly complement the meal. You can also serve the dish with a side of grilled vegetables for a balance of flavors and textures.

This recipe for French potatoes with eggs and cheese is not just a delicious meal but also an invitation to conviviality. Share it with loved ones and enjoy every bite!