New potatoes in the oven

Delicious recipe for new potatoes baked with garlic and herbs

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 45-60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4-6

When it comes to side dishes, baked new potatoes are a simple yet extremely flavorful choice. This recipe, full of aromas and textures, will transform your meal into a memorable experience, offering a perfect combination of taste and nutrition. New potatoes are not only delicious but also very versatile, and this recipe will show you how to prepare them in the best possible way.

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 kg new potatoes
- 1 bunch of fresh dill, chopped
- 3 large cloves of garlic, crushed
- 1 bunch of green onions, chopped
- 3 tablespoons palm oil
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon turmeric powder
- White pepper, to taste
- Salt, to taste
- Approximately 100 ml water

A brief story about new potatoes:

New potatoes are a spring delicacy, bringing with them the promise of a new beginning. They are harvested before reaching full maturity, having a fine texture and delicate flavor. Over time, the potato has become a staple ingredient in diets around the world, appreciated for its versatility and nutritional value. Whether fried, boiled, or baked, new potatoes can be combined with various herbs and spices to create delicious dishes.

Step by step: Preparing baked new potatoes

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the new potatoes well under a stream of cold water to remove any impurities. You can use a vegetable brush to ensure they are completely clean, as the thin skin is full of nutrients.

2. Peeling the potatoes: After washing, you can choose to peel them or leave the skin on, depending on your preference. The skin contributes to the texture and adds extra fiber.

3. Preheating the oven: Preheat the oven to 200°C. This will ensure even baking and help caramelize the flavors.

4. Preparing the spice mixture: In a large bowl, combine the palm oil and olive oil. Add the crushed garlic, chopped dill, green onions, and turmeric powder. Mix the ingredients well to obtain a homogeneous marinade.

5. Preparing the baking tray: Choose a Jena dish or a baking tray that allows good air circulation. Add the cleaned potatoes to the tray, then pour the spice mixture over them. Use your hands to mix them well, ensuring that each potato is coated with an even layer of marinade.

6. Adding water: Add approximately 100 ml of water to the tray to help create steam that will keep the potatoes juicy during baking. This is an essential trick to achieve soft potatoes on the inside and crispy on the outside.

7. Baking: Place the tray in the preheated oven and let the potatoes bake for about 45-60 minutes. In the meantime, you can check from time to time if they are done, using a fork to test them. When they are soft and golden, they are ready to serve!

8. Serving: Once the potatoes are ready, remove them from the oven and season them with salt and pepper to taste. Add grated cheese on top for extra flavor, if desired. These baked new potatoes are an excellent side dish that pairs perfectly with meats, fish, or even as a vegetarian main course.

Practical tips:

- Choose fresh potatoes: New potatoes have a more delicate texture and sweeter taste than mature ones. Buy them from the market or fresh produce stores to ensure they are of the best quality.

- Customize the recipe: You can replace dill with other herbs like rosemary or thyme for a different flavor. You can also add vegetables like carrots or zucchini, which bake well together with the potatoes.

- Frequently asked questions:
- *What type of oil can I use?* You can use other vegetable oils, but I recommend olive oil for its flavor.
- *Can I prepare the potatoes in advance?* Yes, you can prepare the potatoes and the spice mixture a few hours before baking them. This will allow the flavors to blend and become more intense.
- *How can I tell when they are done?* The potatoes are done when a fork easily goes into them, and the exterior is golden and crispy.

Nutritional value: New potatoes are an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, vitamin C, and fiber. They provide sustained energy and contribute to digestive health. Garlic and herbs bring antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits, making this recipe not only tasty but also healthy.

Delicious combinations: This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad of tomatoes and cucumbers or a refreshing tzatziki sauce. You can also enjoy a glass of dry white wine or a light beer to complete the meal.

Experiment with this simple and quick recipe for baked new potatoes and let the aromas and textures delight your taste buds. Don't forget to share your impressions and try new variations! Enjoy your meal!