Oven-baked garlic potatoes

Delicious Baked Potatoes with Garlic Recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 90 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Welcome to the world of delicious flavors! Today, we present a simple and savory baked potato recipe that will fill your home with an inviting aroma and turn any meal into a true feast of tastes. These potatoes are tender, well-garlicked, and have a golden crust, perfect for enjoying alongside meat, fish, or even as an appetizer.

A Brief History of the Recipe

The potato is a universal ingredient found in kitchens around the world. Over time, it has been prepared in countless ways, and garlic recipes are among the most beloved. Garlic, with its unmistakable aroma, not only adds a delicious flavor but also brings health benefits. Together, potatoes and garlic create a perfect combination, ideal for savoring at any time of the day.

Ingredients

- 6 medium potatoes (ideally choose Yukon Gold or red potatoes, which have a creamy texture)
- 50 ml olive oil (use extra virgin olive oil for added flavor)
- One large head of garlic (about 10-12 cloves)
- 5 allspice berries
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- Salt (to taste)
- A pinch of sweet paprika (for vibrant color)
- A pinch of dried thyme (or fresh, if available)
- A few coriander seeds
- One cup of water

Preparation Steps

1. Preparing the Potatoes: Start by peeling the potatoes. Choose medium-sized, uniform potatoes for even cooking. Place them in a large pot with cold water. This will help retain the starch and achieve an ideal texture.

2. Boiling the Potatoes: Bring the water to a boil and let the potatoes boil for 10 minutes. This will help soften the potatoes slightly, so they don’t take too long in the oven. After 10 minutes, remove them from the water and let them cool slightly, just enough to handle.

3. Preparing the Flavored Oil: In a bowl, combine the olive oil with the spices: allspice, pepper, salt, sweet paprika, thyme, and coriander. This mixture will bring an intense flavor to the potatoes, making every bite delicious.

4. Preparing the Garlic Paste: In another bowl, crush the garlic cloves, adding a little salt and water. This combination will create a flavorful garlic paste that will be poured over the potatoes during baking.

5. Cutting the Potatoes: Using a sharp knife, cut each potato into vertical slices, but not all the way through – leave a base intact. This will allow the potatoes to open up during baking and absorb the flavors from the oil and garlic paste.

6. Assembling: Place the sliced potatoes in a baking dish, pouring the oil mixture over them. Make sure each potato is well coated. Also, add the garlic paste, reserving a few tablespoons to brush the potatoes during baking.

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Place the dish in the oven and bake the potatoes for about 1 hour and 30 minutes. It’s important to brush them with the reserved garlic paste from the dish a few times during baking to keep them moist and enhance the flavor.

8. Serving: Once the potatoes are browned and crispy on the outside, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve them warm, accompanied by a fresh salad or a yogurt-based sauce for a refreshing note. This dish pairs perfectly with grilled meats, fish, or even as a side with grilled vegetables.

Useful Tips and Variations

- If you want to experiment with flavors, add fresh herbs like rosemary or oregano to the oil mixture.
- You can use sweet potatoes for a healthier and slightly sweeter version.
- If you don’t have allspice, you can use spices like cumin or bay leaves to add another flavor.
- This dish can also be made on the grill, resulting in a delicious smoky flavor.

Nutritional Information

These potatoes are packed with healthy carbohydrates, vitamins (such as vitamin C and B6), and minerals (like potassium). Garlic adds not only flavor but also antioxidants, benefiting the immune system. Each serving contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of oil used.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use pre-cooked potatoes? Yes, but the baking time will be significantly reduced, so you’ll want to check for the desired texture.
- How can I adjust the recipe for a vegan diet? This recipe is already vegan, but make sure the olive oil is of high quality.
- Can leftover potatoes be stored? Yes, leftover potatoes can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven to regain the crispy texture.

This baked garlic potato recipe is not just a simple dish but a culinary experience that brings joy and flavor to every meal. Experiment with the flavors, add a touch of your personality, and turn every meal into a special occasion. Enjoy!