Oven-Baked Rustic Potatoes

Rustic Oven-Baked Potato Side Dish

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Welcome to the delicious world of soulful dishes! Today, I will guide you step by step in preparing a rustic oven-baked potato side dish, a recipe that combines tradition with intense flavors, perfect for accompanying various main courses. This recipe is not only simple but also incredibly tasty, with a presentation that will delight any guest.

Recipe History
Rustic potatoes are an essential part of traditional cuisine. They have been cultivated for centuries, serving as a staple food in many cultures due to their versatility and accessibility. The recipe we will prepare today is a modern variant that brings authentic flavors to the forefront by using simple yet flavorful ingredients.

Necessary Ingredients
- 2000 g potatoes (choose new potatoes for a finer texture)
- 200 g smoked pork belly, sliced thinly (you can also use bacon for a more intense flavor)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Potato seasoning (preferably a mix of thyme, rosemary, dill, salt, and pepper)
- 200 g grated telemea cheese (feta or mozzarella works as well)
- 150 g grated cheese
- 4 eggs
- 150 g sour cream (full-fat sour cream provides a richer taste)
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Butter, for greasing the baking dish
- Milk, to taste (optional, for a creamier consistency)

Step by Step for a Perfect Result

1. Preparing the Potatoes
Start by peeling the potatoes. It is essential to remove any traces of dirt, as a clean potato will taste better. Once peeled, cut them into slices about 1 cm thick. This will allow for even cooking.

2. Boiling the Potatoes
Place the sliced potatoes in a large pot, add enough water to cover them completely, and add a teaspoon of salt. Let them boil for 15 minutes from the moment the water starts boiling. It is important not to overboil them, as they will continue to cook in the oven. After 15 minutes, drain them well and leave them in a colander to cool and drain excess water.

3. Preparing the Smoked Pork Belly
While the potatoes are draining, slice the smoked pork belly thinly. If you prefer a leaner option, you can opt for chicken or turkey.

4. Preparing the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, beat the 4 eggs with a little salt and pepper, then add the sour cream and grated telemea cheese. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous mixture. This mixture will provide creaminess to your dish.

5. Assembling the Dish
Take a baking dish and generously grease it with butter to prevent sticking. Start layering the boiled potatoes in the dish, sprinkle the potato seasoning on top, followed by the slices of smoked pork belly. Continue layering potatoes and pork belly until you finish the ingredients.

6. Pouring the Egg Mixture
After completing the layers of potatoes and pork belly, pour the egg and sour cream mixture evenly over the potatoes. This step is essential for binding all the ingredients together and creating a creamy texture.

7. Finalizing the Dish
Sprinkle the grated cheese on top, followed by the chopped fresh parsley, which will add a touch of freshness and a colorful appearance.

8. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 50 minutes or until the dish becomes golden and crispy. It’s the perfect time to set the table or enjoy a glass of wine!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of meat?
Absolutely! You can experiment with different types of meat, such as sausages or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

2. How can I make this recipe healthier?
You can reduce the amount of cheese or sour cream and add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to enrich the dish.

3. What can I serve alongside rustic potatoes?
This side dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meat dishes, pork roasts, or even a fresh salad.

Nutritional Details
This rustic oven-baked potato side dish has a moderate caloric intake but is rich in nutrients thanks to the potatoes and cheeses. Each serving may contain approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of ingredients used. Potatoes are an excellent source of carbohydrates and fiber, while cheeses add protein and calcium.

Serving Suggestion
Serve the rustic potatoes hot, alongside a fresh green salad for a crunchy contrast, or with a garlic yogurt sauce that will perfectly complement the flavors.

Enjoy your meal! This rustic oven-baked potato recipe will not only bring a touch of tradition to your kitchen but will also delight the taste buds of everyone who tries it!