Stuffed potatoes

Stuffed Potatoes with Cheese – A Simple, Flavorful Recipe

Who doesn't love potatoes? This versatile ingredient can be transformed into countless dishes, and today we will explore a delicious recipe for cheese-stuffed potatoes. This recipe is not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to prepare, perfect for a quick family meal or a savory appetizer at a party.

Recipe History
Stuffed potatoes have a long tradition in various culinary cultures, being an ingenious way to use potatoes and give them a distinct flavor. This recipe combines textures and aromas, creating a dish that can be served both hot and cold. It is a recipe that brings a touch of nostalgia, reminding us of the bountiful meals of childhood.

Preparation Time
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4

Ingredients
- 500 g potatoes
- 1 egg
- 100 g salty cheese (choose a matured cheese for a more intense flavor)
- 3 cloves of garlic
- A pinch of pepper
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- Oil for greasing the tray

Step by Step - Preparing the Stuffed Potatoes

1. Preparing the potatoes: Wash the potatoes well under cold running water to remove any impurities. If you have larger potatoes, choose medium-sized ones to ensure even cooking. Place them in a pot with salted water and boil for about 10 minutes, until a fork can easily pierce them, but do not boil them completely - we want them to remain slightly firm.

2. Cooling the potatoes: After boiling, remove them from the water and let them cool under a cold running water stream. This trick will help you peel them more easily.

3. Preparing the filling: While the potatoes are cooling, start preparing the filling. Grate the salty cheese into a large bowl. Add the peeled and crushed garlic, finely chopped parsley, and the egg. Mix everything well to obtain a homogeneous mixture. You can also add a pinch of pepper for a stronger flavor.

4. Scooping the potatoes: Once cooled, peel the potatoes and cut them in half lengthwise. Use a teaspoon or a knife to remove the flesh from the inside, leaving a wall of about 1 cm. Place the potato flesh in a separate bowl and mash it with a fork.

5. Mixing the ingredients: Add the mashed potato flesh to the bowl with the cheese filling and mix well. This step is essential, as it will add moisture and bind the mixture together.

6. Filling the potatoes: Fill each potato half with the cheese mixture, ensuring they are well packed. You can use a spoon or even your hands to ensure the filling is tightly compacted.

7. Preparing for the oven: Grease a tray with oil and arrange the stuffed potatoes in it, leaving a little space between them for even cooking.

8. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C and place the tray in the oven for about 30 minutes. The potatoes will become golden and slightly crispy on the outside.

Serving the Stuffed Potatoes
Stuffed potatoes can be served warm or cold, and for an extra flavor boost, you can accompany them with sour cream or sauerkraut juice. These add a touch of acidity that perfectly balances the rich taste of the cheese. You can also try serving them alongside a fresh seasonal salad.

Interesting Variations
If you want to add a personal touch, you can experiment with the fillings. Instead of salty cheese, try goat cheese or mozzarella for a creamier texture. You can also add some chopped olives or bell peppers for an explosion of flavors.

Nutritional Benefits
Potatoes are an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, providing long-lasting energy. Additionally, cheese is rich in calcium, and garlic has antioxidant properties, positively impacting cardiovascular health.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use sweet potatoes? Yes, sweet potatoes offer a unique flavor and are a healthy alternative to regular potatoes.
- How can I store stuffed potatoes? You can store stuffed potatoes in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven to regain their crispy texture.
- What drinks pair well with this dish? A light beer or a dry white wine pairs wonderfully with stuffed potatoes.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it’s time to start cooking! I assure you that these stuffed potatoes will quickly become a favorite among your family and friends. Enjoy!