Potato pudding with cheese

Potato and Cheese Pudding: A Comforting Delight

When it comes to dishes that embrace the soul and remind us of family meals, potato and cheese pudding holds a special place. This simple and tasty recipe is perfect for lunch or dinner, being both nourishing and comforting. Made with accessible and easy-to-find ingredients, potato and cheese pudding is an excellent choice for any occasion. Let's venture into the world of flavors with this captivating recipe!

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 1 kg potatoes
- 75 g butter (preferably unsalted)
- salt (to taste)
- 100 g sour cream (plus 3 tablespoons for the mash)
- 300 g cheese (telemea cheese or feta cheese for a salty note)
- 2 eggs
- 2 tomatoes (for decoration)
- breadcrumbs (for greasing the pan)

Step-by-Step Preparation:

1. Boiling the Potatoes: Start by peeling and washing the potatoes. Place them in a pot with salted water, ensuring they are completely covered. Whether you choose white or red potatoes, each brings a delicious taste. Boil them for about 20-25 minutes or until they become soft. Test them with a fork; if it goes in easily, they are ready.

2. Cooling the Potatoes: After boiling, drain them in a colander and let them cool. This step is important for achieving a smooth and creamy mash.

3. Preparing the Pan: While the potatoes are cooling, grease a pan or pot with butter and breadcrumbs. This will prevent the pudding from sticking and provide a delicious crust. Ensure the butter evenly covers the surface and that the breadcrumbs are evenly distributed.

4. Preparing the Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, add grated cheese (you can use a fine grater for a smoother texture), sour cream, and eggs. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous mixture. Taste the mixture and adjust the salt according to how salty the cheese is.

5. Preparing the Potato Mash: Meanwhile, mash the cooled potatoes as you would for a puree. Add salt to taste, the butter, and the 3 tablespoons of sour cream. Mix well to achieve a creamy mash without lumps.

6. Assembling the Pudding: Start pouring a layer of potato mash into the prepared pan, followed by a layer of cheese mixture. Continue alternating layers, ensuring that the last layer is cheese. This will create a delicious and savory crust.

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the pan in the oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the pudding turns golden and browned on top.

8. Decorating: Five minutes before turning off the oven, remove the pan and decorate the pudding with tomato slices. This not only adds an appealing look but also a fresh note of flavor.

9. Serving: Remove the pudding from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before portioning. Serve warm, alongside a fresh salad or a garlic yogurt sauce, which will perfectly complement the taste.

Practical Tips:
- You can experiment with various types of cheese, such as gouda or mozzarella for a softer texture.
- If you want a note of freshness, add fresh herbs like dill or parsley to the cheese mixture.
- Potato and cheese pudding can be served as a main dish or as a side dish alongside grilled meat.

Nutritional Benefits:
This pudding is an excellent source of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats due to its simple ingredients. Potatoes provide energy, while cheese and sour cream contribute proteins and calcium, essential for bone health.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can the potato and cheese pudding be frozen? Yes, you can freeze the pudding before baking it. Ensure it is well covered and thawed before baking.
- What type of potatoes is best? White or pink potatoes are the best for mash, as they have a higher starch content, making them creamier.

Ideal Pairings:
This pudding pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or a side of steamed vegetables. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine or a refreshing lemonade will complete the meal.

In conclusion, potato and cheese pudding is a recipe that combines tradition with comfort, bringing the flavors of childhood to your table. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or just to indulge yourself, the result will always be delicious. Savor every bite and enjoy the time spent in the kitchen!