New potatoes baked like in Banat

Oven-baked new potatoes, a classic recipe that evokes cherished childhood memories, combines simplicity with authentic taste. These golden and tender potatoes are the perfect side dish for any meal, and preparing them is a delight. Let me guide you step by step through this recipe, providing you with useful tips and special information about the ingredients.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 50-60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients you will need:
- 2 kg new potatoes (preferably medium-sized)
- 1 large onion (ideally white or yellow)
- 2 green garlic stalks (or 4-5 cloves of dried garlic)
- 50 ml olive oil or sunflower oil
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- 1-2 tablespoons sweet paprika (optional, for added flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Vegeta (or a preferred spice mix)
- Water (enough to cover the potatoes)

Step by step:

1. Preparing the potatoes
Start by peeling the potatoes. Wash them well under cold running water to remove any impurities. If using new potatoes, there is no need to peel them, but make sure to wash them thoroughly. Cut them into quarters or sixths, depending on their size, ensuring they are as uniform as possible for even baking.

2. Seasoning
In a baking dish, add the cut potatoes. Finely chop the onion and green garlic (or garlic cloves) and add them over the potatoes. Sprinkle salt, pepper, paprika, and Vegeta, then pour the oil on top. Mix well with a spatula or your hands to ensure each potato is coated with the spices.

3. Adding water
Add water until it reaches the level of the potatoes, but do not cover them completely. This step is essential to help them bake evenly and avoid drying out.

4. Baking
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven at 200 degrees Celsius. Bake the potatoes for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue to bake for another 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally with a fork or spatula to avoid breaking them.

5. Finishing
When the potatoes become golden and slightly crispy on the outside, they are ready! Remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

Chef's tip:
To add extra flavor, you can include some herbs like rosemary or thyme during baking. They pair perfectly with the taste of the potatoes and give a rustic and appetizing look.

Nutritional benefits:
Potatoes are an excellent source of carbohydrates, vitamins (especially vitamin C), and minerals (such as potassium). Consume in moderation and in combination with other vegetables for a balanced meal. These oven-baked potatoes can be a healthy choice when prepared with olive oil and natural spices.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use boiled potatoes instead of new potatoes?
While you can use boiled potatoes, the result will be different. New potatoes provide a better texture and specific flavor.

- What can I do with leftover potatoes?
You can make potato salad or add them to omelets for a hearty breakfast.

- How can I vary the recipe?
You can add vegetables like carrots or zucchini to create a colorful and healthy side dish. You can also experiment with different spices, such as curry or cumin.

Serving suggestion:
I recommend serving these potatoes alongside a chicken stew, but they also pair wonderfully with lamb chops or grilled fish. A yogurt sauce with herbs can add a fresh note to the dish.

This simple yet tasty dish will make you come back to it, evoking cherished memories. Don’t hesitate to try it, and your family will be delighted by its aroma and texture! Enjoy your meal!