Potato pie with ham and cheese, in a skillet

Name: Potato pie with ham and cheese, in a skillet - Tania I.
Ingredients: 7 medium potatoes; 4; 5 tablespoons of flour (I only used 3; 4 but it needed a bit more); 1; 2 eggs; salt; pressed ham/smoked tenderloin/kaiser (choose what you prefer); slices of cheese.

Diverse - Potato pie with ham and cheese, in a skillet by Tania I. - Recipia

Potato, Ham, and Cheese Pie, Pan-Fried Discover a delicious and comforting recipe, perfect for transforming simple ingredients into a savory dish. This potato, ham, and cheese pie, cooked in a pan, is an ideal choice for family meals or a relaxing evening at home. With a preparation time of about 30 minutes and a baking time of 15 minutes, you’ll have a total of 45 minutes to enjoy this delicacy. The recipe serves 4 generous portions. Necessary ingredients: - 7 medium potatoes (approximately 1 kg) - 4-5 tablespoons of flour (adjustable based on dough consistency) - 1-2 eggs (depending on their size) - Salt, to taste - 150-200 g pressed ham, smoked loin, or kaiser (the choice is yours) - 150 g slices of cheese A bit of history: Potato pies have a long-standing tradition, being prepared in various cultures to celebrate moments of togetherness. This type of pie is appreciated for its versatility, adaptable to different available ingredients. In this recipe, the combination of potatoes, ham, and cheese offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Preparing the pie: 1. Boil the potatoes: Start by washing the potatoes well (leave the skins on) and place them in a pot of cold water. Let them boil until a fork easily pierces them, about 20-30 minutes. This step is crucial, as the potatoes need to be soft enough to be grated but not so much that they fall apart. 2. Cool and peel the potatoes: After boiling, drain the water and let the potatoes cool slightly. Then, peel off the skins. This step is simple, but make sure the potatoes are cool enough to avoid burns. 3. Prepare the dough: Grate the potatoes using a large grater and place them in a large bowl. Add salt, the eggs, and flour. Mix well by hand until you achieve a smooth, non-sticky dough. Be cautious with the amount of flour: it’s better to add it gradually to avoid making the dough too heavy. A well-prepared dough will ensure thin, crispy layers. 4. Prepare the pan: Use a pan with a diameter of about 28 cm (or smaller, depending on your preference). Add a tablespoon of oil and heat the pan over medium heat. 5. Form the first layer: Divide the dough into two equal balls. Take the first ball and, using your fingers, roll it out into a round layer, ensuring it’s even. The dough consistency should be just right: not too tough to roll out, and not too soft to fall apart. 6. Add the filling: Carefully place the first layer in the pan. On top, add a layer of ham, followed by a layer of cheese. You can customize your pie with your favorite ingredients or add herbs for extra flavor. 7. Cover with the second layer: Roll out the second ball of dough similarly and place it over the filling. Gently press the edges of the bottom layer to seal them. This step is crucial to prevent the filling from leaking during baking. 8. Cook the pie: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a lid, and let the pie cook for 5 minutes. It’s important to check the pie with a wide spatula to see if it’s browning. Your pan should be hot enough to cook the pie effectively. 9. Flip the pie: Once the pie is nicely browned, tilt the pan and let the pie fall onto a large plate. Cover the pie with another plate, carefully flip it over, and let it cool slightly. 10. Serve: Slice the pie into portions and place it on a serving platter. It’s delicious served warm, alongside yogurt, fresh salad, or pickles. This combination adds a pleasant contrast of flavors and textures. Helpful tips: - Choosing ingredients: Use starchy potatoes, such as “mălai” type, for a better dough layer. - Experiment with the filling: Instead of ham, you can use feta cheese, sautéed vegetables, or even mushrooms for a vegetarian version. - Rolling out the dough: If you have difficulty rolling out the dough, sprinkle a little flour on the work surface to prevent sticking. Frequently asked questions: 1. What can I do with leftover pie? You can keep the pie in the fridge for 2-3 days and reheat it in a pan or oven to restore its crispiness. 2. Is this recipe suitable for vegans? Although the basic recipe contains eggs and animal products, you can substitute the eggs with a mixture of chickpea flour and water to create a similar dough. 3. Can I freeze the pie? Yes, the pie can be frozen before or after baking. Make sure to wrap it well in cling film to prevent freezer burn. Nutritional benefits: This pie offers a combination of complex carbohydrates from potatoes, protein from ham and cheese, as well as fiber, especially if you opt for vegetables in the filling. It’s a tasty dish that can be served for both lunch and dinner, satisfying even the most discerning tastes. Serving suggestions: Potato pie pairs excellently with a glass of kefir or Greek yogurt, adding a refreshing and healthy note. Additionally, a tomato salad with onion and olive oil will perfectly complement this dish. In conclusion, this potato, ham, and cheese pie, pan-fried, is not just a simple recipe but a culinary experience that brings family and friends together. Experiment, adapt, and enjoy every bite!