Skordalia

Skordalia Recipe - Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

In this captivating recipe, I will guide you through the preparation of a delicious skordalia, a creamy garlic mashed potato that proves to be the perfect accompaniment for fried fish or other seafood dishes. Although the origins of skordalia are deeply rooted in culinary traditions, each family has its own version, adapted to local tastes and ingredients. This mash is not only tasty but also easy to prepare, perfect for a quick dinner or a festive meal.

Ingredients

- 2 medium potatoes
- 1-2 slices of stale bread
- 4-5 cloves of garlic
- Salt (to taste)
- 3-4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- Water (for boiling and adjusting consistency)

Ingredient Details

Potatoes: Choose starchy potatoes, such as Russet, as they will mash easily and create a fine puree.

Bread: Use stale bread, preferably whole grain or rustic, to add a pleasant texture and richer flavor.

Garlic: Opt for fresh garlic cloves, as their aroma will make a difference. If you love garlic, feel free to add more for a bolder taste.

Olive oil: Choose a high-quality extra virgin olive oil. Its flavor will enrich the mash and provide a distinctive aroma.

Step by Step Preparation

1. Preparing the potatoes: Peel the potatoes and cut them into medium-sized pieces. This will ensure even cooking.

2. Boiling the potatoes: Place the cut potatoes in a pot with salted water, making sure the water completely covers the potatoes. Boil for about 15-20 minutes or until tender.

3. Preparing the bread: While the potatoes are boiling, take the slices of stale bread and quickly run them under water. Remove the crust and squeeze the bread well to eliminate excess water, then place it in a bowl.

4. Mashing the ingredients: Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them and add them to the bowl with the bread. Use a potato masher or an immersion blender to mash the potatoes and bread together.

5. Adding the garlic: Peel the garlic cloves and mash them into a paste. Add the mashed garlic to the bowl with potatoes and bread.

6. Adjusting the consistency: Gradually add a little water from the potato boiling water, stirring constantly. The goal is to achieve a creamy consistency similar to that of mashed potatoes.

7. Seasoning: Add salt to taste and the olive oil. Mix well until everything is homogeneous.

8. Serving: Transfer the skordalia to a serving dish. For a special touch, drizzle a little olive oil on top and, if desired, sprinkle with freshly ground pepper or chopped parsley.

Serving Suggestions

Skordalia is delicious alongside fried fish but can also be paired with grilled vegetables or as part of a Mediterranean platter. It can also be a savory appetizer when served with pita or salty crackers.

Possible Variations

- Nut version: Add some crushed nuts to the skordalia mixture for a unique flavor and crunchy texture.
- Beetroot skordalia: For a vibrant color and sweet-sour flavor, add boiled beetroot to the skordalia mixture.
- Spicy version: If you prefer a bolder taste, add chili flakes to the mix.

Nutritional Benefits

This garlic mashed potato is an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, providing sustainable energy. Garlic is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, while olive oil brings healthy fats for the heart. A serving of skordalia contains approximately 200 calories, depending on the oil used and the exact quantities.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes? Yes, sweet potatoes will add an interesting sweetness, but the texture and final taste will be different.
- How can I store skordalia for later? Keep skordalia in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume it within 2-3 days. Gently reheat before serving.
- Is skordalia suitable for vegans? Yes, this recipe is completely vegan, making it a great option for those following a plant-based diet.

Now that you have gone through every step of this recipe, all that’s left is to try it! Skordalia is not just a delicious dish but also an excellent way to bring a bit of Mediterranean charm into your kitchen. Enjoy every bite and take pleasure in your creation!