Mashed potatoes with roasted meat

Mashed Potatoes with Baked Meat: A Savory and Comforting Recipe

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Welcome to my kitchen, where we will create a delicious and comforting dish together: mashed potatoes with baked meat! This recipe combines the velvety texture of mashed potatoes with a flavorful meat sauce, making it a perfect dish for a family dinner or a special occasion. Let’s get started!

A Brief History of the Recipe

Mashed potatoes with baked meat is a traditional recipe that blends influences from various culinary cultures. Every cook has her own version, but the essence remains the same: transforming simple ingredients into something truly special. This recipe is perfect for bringing warmth and comfort on colder days, and it’s also a great way to make loved ones feel at home.

Necessary Ingredients

- 1 kg potatoes
- 100 g butter
- 2 eggs
- 200 g cheese (preferably cottage cheese or cheese)
- 1 chicken breast (about 400 g)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 medium onion
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Oil or butter for greasing the baking dish

Preparing the Mashed Potatoes

1. Preparing the potatoes: Start by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into uniform cubes. This will ensure even boiling. Place them in a pot with cold water and add a teaspoon of salt. Boil for 15-20 minutes or until tender to the touch.

2. Mashing the potatoes: Once boiled, drain the potatoes and place them in a large bowl. Add the butter, eggs (lightly beaten), cheese, and season with salt and pepper. Use a potato masher to create a smooth and creamy mash. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.

Preparing the Meat Sauce

3. The onion: Finely chop the onion and sauté it in a pan with a little oil or butter until translucent. This step will add extra flavor to the sauce.

4. Adding the meat: Cut the chicken breast into small cubes and add it to the onion. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the chicken changes color.

5. The sauce: Add the tomato paste and a cup of water, mixing well. Let it simmer for a minute, then adjust for salt and pepper to taste. Allow the sauce to cool slightly before adding it to the dish.

Assembling the Dish

6. Preparing the dish: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a baking dish with oil or butter to prevent sticking.

7. The mashed layer: Let’s start assembling. Place a generous layer of mashed potatoes on the bottom of the dish, leveling it with a spatula.

8. Adding the sauce: Pour the meat sauce evenly over the mash, ensuring it is distributed uniformly.

9. Covering with mash: Cover the sauce with another layer of mash, smoothing the surface.

10. Adding the eggs: Use a ladle to create a few indentations in the mash. In each indentation, crack an egg. This will add a delicious touch and make the dish even more visually appealing.

Baking and Serving

11. Baking: Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the eggs are cooked and the mash is slightly browned on top.

12. Serving: Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly before portioning. Serve warm, alongside a fresh salad for a contrast of textures and flavors.

Practical Tips for a Perfect Result

- Choose quality potatoes: Starchy potatoes are best for mash, as they create a finer texture.
- Cheese: You can experiment with different types of cheese. Smoked cheese can add a distinct flavor.
- Optional additions: You can add herbs like parsley or dill to the mash for an extra touch of freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pork or beef?
Yes, this recipe is versatile and allows for the use of other types of meat. Just make sure to cook them well before adding them to the sauce.

2. How can I make the mash creamier?
Add more butter or cream to the mash for a richer consistency.

3. What can I do if I don’t have tomato paste?
You can use fresh tomatoes, pureed, or even tomato sauce, depending on your preference.

Delicious Pairings

This mashed potatoes with baked meat pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or pickles for a pleasant contrast. Additionally, a bottle of dry white wine can perfectly complement the culinary experience.

Nutritional Benefits

This recipe is not only delicious but also offers considerable nutritional value. Potatoes are an excellent source of carbohydrates, fiber, and vitamins, while chicken breast is rich in lean protein, contributing to a healthy diet.

In conclusion, mashed potatoes with baked meat is a recipe that combines simplicity with flavor, bringing warmth and comfort to any meal. I encourage you to try it and share with your loved ones the joy this dish brings! Enjoy!