Oven-baked potatoes with pastrama

Oven-Baked Potatoes with Pastrama: A Rustic, Flavorful Recipe

If you're looking for a simple yet incredibly delicious recipe, oven-baked potatoes with pastrama are the perfect choice. This dish combines the creamy textures of potatoes with the intensity and aroma of pastrama, creating a meal that will delight your family and friends. Whether you serve it at a weekend dinner or for a special occasion, this dish is sure to become a favorite.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4

Your ingredients for this recipe are:
- 1 kg potatoes
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 5 pieces of pork pastrama (approximately 300-400 g)
- 100 g butter
- Water (as needed)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by peeling the potatoes. Choose medium-sized potatoes that are firm and blemish-free. Once peeled, cut them into thick slices, about 1-2 cm. These slices will help maintain the texture of the potatoes during baking.

2. Spice mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the salt, pepper, rosemary, paprika, and garlic powder. This mixture will give the potatoes an extraordinary flavor. You can use fresh rosemary if you have it, but dried is just as good.

3. Combining the ingredients:
Add the potato slices to the bowl with the spices and mix well, ensuring each slice is evenly coated. This step is essential for ensuring consistent flavor throughout the dish.

4. Arranging in the baking dish:
Take a baking dish and arrange the potato slices evenly, forming a single layer. Make sure they are not overlapping, so they bake evenly.

5. Adding the pastrama:
Cut the pastrama into large pieces and place them on top of the potatoes. The pastrama will release its flavorful juices during baking, infusing the potatoes with a rich taste.

6. Butter and water:
Using a knife, cut the butter into small cubes and distribute it evenly over the potatoes and pastrama. This will add a creamy note and help form a delicious crust. Add a cup of water to the dish; if you notice it's necessary, you can add more water during baking to maintain moisture.

7. Baking:
Cover the dish with aluminum foil, ensuring it's tightly sealed to retain steam. Preheat the oven to 180°C and place the dish inside. Bake for 45 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and leave it in the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the potatoes are golden and crispy.

Serving:
Once the potatoes are baked, let them cool slightly before serving. They are delicious paired with a garlic mustard sauce, which adds a pleasant contrast to the rich flavors of the potatoes and pastrama.

My personal tip:
If you want to add a touch of freshness, you can sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or dill on top just before serving. Additionally, this recipe pairs perfectly with a seasonal salad, which will balance the richness of the dish.

Nutritional benefits:
Potatoes are a good source of complex carbohydrates and vitamins, particularly vitamin C and B6. Pastrama, on the other hand, is rich in protein but should be consumed in moderation due to its fat content. This dish offers a hearty and satisfying meal, ideal for cooler days.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will add a touch of sweetness and a vibrant color to the dish.

2. How can I store leftovers?
If there are any leftover potatoes, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave.

3. What other types of meat can I use?
You can experiment with chicken or turkey for a lighter version, or even sausages for a different flavor.

Possible variations:
- Add vegetables like carrots or onions to enrich the dish.
- Experiment with spices: add cumin or oregano for a different flavor.

I invite you to enjoy this recipe for oven-baked potatoes with pastrama and let your imagination run wild in the kitchen with different variations and flavors! Bon appétit!