French fries with sausages and cucumber salad

Delicious Recipe: Fried Potatoes with Sausages and Cucumber Salad

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 45-50 minutes
Servings: 4

Introduction

Who doesn’t love the enticing aroma of fried potatoes wafting through the house? This simple and quick recipe for fried potatoes with sausages and cucumber salad will not only satisfy your hunger but also bring a touch of nostalgia, evoking pleasant childhood memories. It’s a comforting meal, perfect for those days when you want to indulge in something delicious and satisfying.

A Brief History

Fried potatoes are a classic dish that has won the hearts of many cultures around the world. They are believed to have been discovered in South America, but their popularity exploded in Europe, where they were incorporated into various dishes, including those with sausages. Sausages, on the other hand, have a rich history, made from meat, spices, and fat, used for centuries to preserve meat. Today, this combination is a universal favorite, and our recipe is a simple and delicious take on these ingredients.

Necessary Ingredients

- 1 kg potatoes (choose waxy potatoes for a crispy texture)
- Oil for frying (sunflower or canola oil are the best options)
- 400 g fresh sausages (pork or beef sausages work perfectly)
- 2-3 cucumbers (pickling or salad cucumbers, as preferred)
- 2-3 tablespoons of vinegar (white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar)
- Salt (to taste)
- A handful of fresh parsley (to add a touch of freshness)

Step by Step

1. Preparing the Potatoes
- Start by peeling the potatoes. Use a sharp knife to remove the thin skin, then wash them well under cold water to remove any impurities.
- Cut the potatoes into thin slices or sticks, depending on your preference. The thinner they are, the quicker they will fry and become crisp.

2. Frying the Potatoes
- In a large skillet, add enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan (about 1-2 cm of oil).
- Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches a temperature of about 180°C (you can check the temperature by throwing in a slice of potato – if it starts to sizzle, the oil is ready).
- Add the cut potatoes to the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden and crispy, about 10-15 minutes. You can turn them with a spatula for even frying.

3. Frying the Sausages
- Once the potatoes are fried, remove them from the skillet and place them on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.
- In the same skillet, add the fresh sausages. Fry them over medium heat, turning them occasionally, until they are golden and caramelized, about 10-12 minutes.

4. Preparing the Cucumber Salad
- While the sausages are frying, peel the cucumbers if you prefer, or you can leave them unpeeled for added texture. Cut them into thin rounds and place them in a bowl.
- Sprinkle salt and vinegar over the cucumbers, mixing well. Adjust the amount of salt and vinegar to taste. Add the chopped fresh parsley for an extra burst of flavor and color.

5. Assembling the Plate
- On a large platter, arrange a generous layer of fried potatoes, followed by the golden and crispy sausages.
- Serve the cucumber salad on the side, adding a sprinkle of parsley on top for a decorative touch.

Serving Suggestions

This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a meal with friends. You can accompany the dish with garlic sauce or mayonnaise, which will add a creamy and delicious note. Additionally, a cold beer or a fresh white wine pairs perfectly with this combination.

Possible Variations

- Oven-Baked Potatoes: If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the potatoes in the oven with olive oil and spices, achieving a crispy texture without frying.
- Different Sausages: Experiment with different types of sausages, such as chicken or turkey sausages, for a lighter version.
- Vegetable Additions: You can add bell peppers or onions to fry alongside the sausages for an extra flavor boost.

Nutritional Benefits

This recipe offers a balanced combination of carbohydrates from the potatoes, protein from the sausages, and vitamins from the fresh vegetables. Potatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, while sausages provide essential proteins. The cucumber salad adds extra hydration and nutrients, making this dish a healthy yet delicious choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen potatoes?
- Yes, but make sure to fully thaw and dry them well before frying to avoid splattering oil.

2. How can I prevent the potatoes from absorbing too much oil?
- Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the potatoes and do not overcrowd the pan.

3. What else can I add to the cucumber salad?
- You can add tomatoes, red onion, or dill for extra flavor.

4. How many calories does this dish have?
- A serving of fried potatoes with sausages and cucumber salad can have approximately 600-800 calories, depending on the type of sausages and the amount of oil used.

Conclusion

This recipe for fried potatoes with sausages and cucumber salad is not only simple but also full of flavor and nostalgia. Whether you prepare it for a relaxing evening at home or for a gathering with friends, it will make you feel good and enjoy every bite. So embrace this recipe and let the delicious aroma of fried potatoes and sausages, perfectly complemented by the freshness of the cucumber salad, take you away. Enjoy your meal!