Potatoes marinated in milk

Marinated Potatoes in Milk - A Delicious Side Dish for Any Roast

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Marinating time: 40 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 25 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Marinated potatoes in milk are a simple yet extremely flavorful side dish that can transform any ordinary meal into an unforgettable culinary experience. This recipe is perfect for accompanying a juicy roast but can also be enjoyed alongside a fresh salad. Let's embark together on this simple yet flavorful process!

A Brief Story of the Recipe

In many culinary cultures, marinating ingredients in milk is a traditional practice that brings benefits not only in terms of flavor but also texture. Milk helps to tenderize food, and the flavors intensify, creating a pleasant contrast between the ingredients used. In this case, the potatoes become creamier and more delicate, providing a perfect side dish for any type of meat.

Necessary Ingredients

- 2-3 medium potatoes (about 500 g)
- 2 cups of cold milk (about 500 ml)
- 50 g butter (plus a few small pieces for sprinkling)
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Coarse salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Steps to Follow

1. Preparing the Potatoes
Start by peeling the potatoes. Choose medium-sized, young, and firm potatoes. Once peeled, wash them well under cold water to remove any impurities. Cut the potatoes into slices about 1-1.5 cm thick. This will ensure even cooking and a pleasant texture in the end.

2. Cutting the Shapes
Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter (or any other preferred shape) to cut out from the potato slices. This step is not only aesthetic but also fun, adding a touch of creativity to the dish. If you don’t have a cutter, you can leave the slices as they are.

3. Marinating in Milk
Place the heart-shaped potato pieces in a plastic bowl and pour the two cups of cold milk over them. Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and let it sit in the refrigerator for about 40 minutes. This marinating time will help improve the texture and flavor of the potatoes.

4. Preheating the Oven
Before removing the potatoes from the marinade, preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. It is important for the oven to be well-heated to achieve an even browning.

5. Preparing the Baking Tray
Grease a baking tray with butter, ensuring it is evenly covered. This will help prevent the potatoes from sticking and will add extra flavor.

6. Arranging and Seasoning
Remove the heart-shaped potatoes from the milk and carefully arrange them in the tray. Sprinkle the sweet paprika, dried thyme, coarse salt, and freshly ground black pepper over the potatoes. Ensure each piece is well-seasoned. Add a few small pieces of butter among the potatoes for additional flavor.

7. Baking the Potatoes
Place the tray in the preheated oven and let the potatoes bake for 25-30 minutes or until they become golden and crispy on the outside. Halfway through the baking time, you can turn the potatoes to ensure they brown evenly.

8. Serving
Once the potatoes are ready, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve them warm alongside your favorite roast. You can also pair them with a fresh green salad, with cucumbers and a simple vinaigrette dressing, to balance the flavors.

Practical Tips

- Choosing Potatoes: Opt for potatoes with smooth skin and no blemishes. New potatoes are ideal, but you can also use older ones, ensuring they are firm.
- Variations: Instead of thyme, you can try oregano or rosemary to change the flavors. You can also add chopped garlic or onion for extra taste.
- Advanced Preparation: You can marinate the potatoes a day in advance and leave them in the fridge, which will further intensify the flavors.

Nutritional Benefits

These marinated potatoes in milk are a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy, and they are also a source of essential vitamins and minerals. The milk adds protein and calcium, making it a healthy side dish option.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use plant-based milk?
Absolutely! Almond or soy milk can be an excellent choice for a vegan option.

- Can I add cheese?
Yes! Grated cheddar cheese can be sprinkled on top before baking the potatoes for an even richer flavor.

- What is the best roast to serve with these potatoes?
Pork roast or grilled chicken pair wonderfully, but you can also try beef roast, which will perfectly complement the taste of the potatoes.

So, invite your family or friends to the table and share this simple yet delicious recipe! Marinated potatoes in milk are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy your meal!