Rustic oven-baked potatoes with spicy sauce

Rustic oven-baked potatoes with spicy sauce - a simple yet flavorful recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 35 minutes
Total: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Who doesn't love the enticing aroma of baked potatoes dressed in a spicy and aromatic sauce? This rustic oven-baked potato recipe is an excellent choice for a family meal or a quick dinner with friends. It's simple, quick, and offers a perfect combination of textures and flavors. Let's begin our culinary adventure!

A brief history of the recipe

Potatoes are a versatile and delicious ingredient used in various dishes around the world. Over time, they have become a staple food in many cultures, appreciated not only for their taste but also for their nutritional benefits. The rustic potato recipe is often associated with hearty meals, where simple ingredients transform into flavorful dishes.

Ingredient details

To achieve the best rustic potatoes, it's essential to choose the right ingredients. Here’s what you will use:

- 1 kg of potatoes - choose smooth and firm-skinned potatoes, such as red or yellow ones, which bake well and remain tender.
- 1 onion - adds sweetness and flavor to the dish.
- 1 red bell pepper - this will provide color and a slightly sweet taste.
- 3 cloves of garlic - for an extra flavor boost, don’t hesitate to use fresh garlic.
- 100 g of butter - the butter will make the potatoes crispy and flavorful.
- Fresh parsley - for garnish and a fresh taste.
- Spices: salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, chili powder - these will enhance the dish's flavor.

Necessary tools

To prepare this recipe, you will need the following utensils:

- A baking tray
- A sharp knife
- A saucepan for the sauce
- A spatula
- A wooden spoon
- A bowl for mixing the ingredients

Step by step: Preparing the rustic potatoes

1. Washing and preparing the potatoes: Start by washing the potatoes under cold running water. Make sure to remove any impurities. Once cleaned, cut them into quarters and let them drain for a few minutes or you can dry them with a clean towel. This will help achieve a crispy texture.

2. Preparing the tray: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Then, line a baking tray with 50 g of butter, ensuring it spreads evenly across the entire surface.

3. Arranging the potatoes: Place the potatoes in the prepared tray, being careful not to overlap them. Sprinkle salt, oregano, pepper, and, optionally, a little chili powder for a more intense flavor on top.

4. Baking the potatoes: Place the tray in the preheated oven and let the potatoes bake for 35 minutes. You will know they are ready when they turn golden and crispy on the outside, while the inside remains tender.

Preparing the spicy sauce

While the potatoes are in the oven, you can prepare the delicious spicy sauce:

1. Sautéing the vegetables: In a saucepan, add 50 g of butter and let it melt over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, sliced bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté the vegetables, stirring constantly, until they become soft and translucent.

2. Adding the tomato sauce: Once the vegetables are well sautéed, add 5 tablespoons of sweet tomato sauce. Season with pepper, thyme, and chili powder, depending on how spicy you want the sauce. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Finishing the sauce: Turn off the heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley for an extra touch of freshness and color.

Serving the dish

Once the potatoes are ready, take them out of the oven and place them on a serving platter. Do not mix the sauce with the potatoes; instead, pour it generously on top. This will keep the potatoes crispy, while the sauce adds a savory note on top.

For an even more satisfying meal, serve the potatoes alongside some spicy sausages that will perfectly harmonize with the sauce and potato flavors.

Possible variations

This recipe is extremely versatile. You can experiment with various types of vegetables added to the sauce, such as zucchini or eggplant, or you can replace the tomato sauce with a combination of Greek yogurt and garlic for a creamier sauce. You can also use sweet potatoes for a healthier and different flavor variant.

Useful tips

- For crispier potatoes: After cutting them, let them soak in cold water for 30 minutes. Then, drain and dry them well before baking.
- Choose fresh ingredients: Buy seasonal vegetables and, if possible, from the local market. The taste will be completely different!
- For a special touch: Add grated cheese on top of the potatoes 5 minutes before taking them out of the oven for a delicious crust.

Calories and nutritional benefits

These rustic potatoes contain, on average, about 250 calories per serving, being a good source of carbohydrates, vitamins (especially vitamin C), and minerals. The olive oil added to the sauce provides healthy fats, while the vegetables contribute to fiber intake.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use boiled potatoes instead of baked potatoes?
Yes, but baked potatoes will have a better texture and won't crumble.

2. What other spices can I add to the sauce?
You can experiment with basil, rosemary, or even cilantro, depending on your taste preferences.

3. How can I make the sauce creamier?
Add sour cream or Greek yogurt to the sauce for a richer texture.

Conclusion

Rustic oven-baked potatoes with spicy sauce are a simple recipe that will fill your home with delicious aromas and delight you with every bite. Don’t forget to play with the ingredients and bring a personal touch to the recipe. So, put on your apron and enjoy cooking! Bon appétit!