Kumpir - Stuffed potato

Kumpir - stuffed potato

Kumpir is a delicacy that has won the hearts of many due to its simplicity and versatility. Originally from Turkey, this street food is a perfect choice for a quick meal, as well as for a savory dinner at home. In this recipe, we will explore how to prepare an authentic and delicious Kumpir using quality ingredients and simple techniques.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 2

Ingredients:
- 2 large potatoes (ideally Russet or Yukon Gold for a fluffy texture)
- 20 grams of unsalted butter
- 20 grams of Cheddar cheese (or any other preferred cheese)
- 1/2 skinless, boneless turkey breast, diced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil
- 4 small pickles, diced
- 2 tablespoons of cooked corn
- 3 tablespoons of low-fat yogurt
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1/2 tablespoon of freshly chopped chives
- Salad mix

Preparation:

1. Preparing the potatoes:
Start by washing the potatoes well under cold water, making sure to remove any impurities. Do not peel them, as the skin will help retain moisture and flavors. With a fork, poke the potatoes in several places to allow steam to escape during baking.

2. Wrapping the potatoes:
Place each potato on a piece of aluminum foil. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil on each potato, then wrap them tightly in foil to form a sealed package. This will help with even baking and moisture retention.

3. Baking the potatoes:
Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Place the wrapped potatoes in the preheated oven and let them bake for one hour. The flavors will intensify, and the potatoes will become soft and fluffy.

4. Preparing the turkey:
In a skillet, add a drizzle of olive oil and, over medium heat, add the diced turkey breast. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste. Cook until the meat is golden and well-cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Turkey is low in fat, making it a healthy choice.

5. Preparing the yogurt sauce:
In a mortar, crush the 2 cloves of garlic with a pinch of salt to extract the flavor. Add the yogurt and mix well with a teaspoon. Finally, fold in the chopped chives. This sauce will add a fresh and invigorating taste to the Kumpir.

6. Finalizing the dish:
After the potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for 2 minutes. Carefully unwrap the foil (watch out for steam) and, with a knife, make a longitudinal incision in the center, being careful not to cut all the way through the potato. Place your hands at the ends and gently squeeze to open the potato.

7. Filling the potatoes:
Use a fork to fluff the potato flesh, making it fluffy. Add 10 grams of butter and 10 grams of Cheddar cheese to each potato, mixing well to achieve a creamy filling. Then, add the turkey cubes, pickles, and cooked corn in the desired order.

8. Adding the sauce:
Finally, pour the garlic yogurt sauce over the rich filling of the potato. This will perfectly complement the flavors, bringing a touch of freshness.

9. Serving:
Serve the Kumpir hot, alongside a mix of fresh salad, which will provide a crunchy and refreshing contrast. You can also add a squeeze of lemon for an extra acidity.

Useful tips:
- You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or mozzarella, for a different texture and flavor.
- If you like a bit of spice, add some slices of hot pepper or chili sauce to the filling.
- Kumpirs can be customized with any ingredient you prefer, such as sautéed mushrooms, olives, or avocado.

Nutritional benefits:
Kumpir is a balanced meal, rich in complex carbohydrates from potatoes and lean proteins from turkey. Olive oil and yogurt provide healthy fats, while vegetables offer essential vitamins and minerals.

Estimated calories:
A serving of Kumpir contains approximately 450-500 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of meat?
Absolutely! You can replace turkey with chicken, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

2. What other toppings can I add?
You can add black beans, avocado, or even hard-boiled eggs for a richer filling.

3. Can the potatoes be prepared in advance?
Yes, the potatoes can be prepared a day ahead, and the filling can be added before serving. Reheat them in the oven to restore their crispy texture.

Kumpir is a perfect choice for a quick meal, but also for a special dinner. Prepare it with love and enjoy the flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds!