Oven-baked potatoes with dill

Oven-Baked Potatoes with Dill – a simple and tasty recipe

Total time: 50 minutes
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Who doesn’t love potatoes? This versatile tuber is a staple in our kitchen and can easily be transformed into a delicious dish, regardless of the occasion. Today’s recipe, oven-baked potatoes with dill, is an invention of my husband, who is in love with this aromatic herb. Dill adds a touch of freshness and flavor that transforms a simple plate of potatoes into an unforgettable culinary experience.

The history of oven-baked potatoes

Oven-baked potatoes are a delicacy appreciated in many cultures, and their preparation has evolved over the years. Whether fried, boiled, or baked, potatoes are a staple ingredient in many diets. Baking them provides a crispy texture on the outside and a soft tenderness inside, and the addition of dill gives them a distinctive taste. This simple and quick recipe is perfect for a family dinner or as a side dish for a festive meal.

Ingredients:

- 2-3 large potatoes (about 800 g), preferably red or yellow
- 4-5 tablespoons olive oil or sunflower oil
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons dried dill (or 4 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped)

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing the potatoes thoroughly under cold water to remove any impurities. Don’t forget to peel them if you prefer potatoes without skin. Cut them into slices about 1-2 cm thick to ensure even baking.

2. Preheating the oven
Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F). This is the ideal temperature to achieve a crispy and golden crust on the potatoes.

3. Preparing the baking tray
In a baking tray, add the oil and place it in the oven for a few minutes until the oil becomes hot. This step is essential for achieving browned and crispy potatoes.

4. Adding the potatoes
Once the oil is hot, remove the tray from the oven (be careful, it’s very hot!). Add the sliced potatoes and mix them well with the oil to coat them evenly. Arrange them in a single layer to allow for even baking.

5. Initial baking
Place the tray back in the oven and let it bake for 20 minutes. This time will allow the potatoes to soften slightly and start to take on a golden color.

6. Seasoning
After 20 minutes, remove the tray from the oven and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and dried dill (or fresh, if you opted for that). Gently toss the potatoes to distribute the seasonings evenly.

7. Finishing the baking
Put the tray back in the oven and let the potatoes bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until they become golden and crispy. It’s important to check them from time to time to ensure they don’t burn.

8. Serving
Once the potatoes are ready, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them warm, alongside a fresh salad or as a side dish to a delicious roast.

Tips and useful advice:

- Choosing potatoes: Opt for potatoes with a lower starch content, such as red or yellow ones, for a better texture.
- Variations: You can also add other seasonings, such as chopped garlic, paprika, or even a bit of grated Parmesan for extra flavor.
- Caring for utensils: Make sure to use a non-stick tray to facilitate cleaning after cooking.

Nutritional benefits:

Potatoes are a good source of carbohydrates, vitamin C, and potassium, making them a healthy choice when prepared correctly. Dill, besides its pleasant aroma, also brings antioxidants that can contribute to digestive health.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use fresh dill? Yes, fresh dill will provide a more intense flavor. Use about 4 tablespoons of chopped fresh dill.
- What other ingredients can I add? You can experiment with herbs like rosemary or thyme. Additionally, a few slices of onion or carrots can complement the recipe.
- How can I store leftovers? Leftover potatoes can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or in a skillet to regain their crispy texture.

Serving suggestions:

These oven-baked potatoes with dill pair wonderfully with a roasted chicken or grilled fish. They can also be served alongside a tomato and cucumber salad for a perfectly balanced meal.

This recipe for oven-baked potatoes with dill is not only simple but also full of flavor, quickly becoming a family favorite. Don’t hesitate to try it and share your results with us! Cooking is an art, and every recipe tells a story of its own. Perhaps we will discover together more delicious recipes in the future!