Potatoes with chorizo (baked)

Oven-Baked Potatoes with Chorizo – A Savory and Unique Recipe

If you are looking for a simple yet flavorful recipe that combines tradition with a touch of innovation, you have come to the right place! Oven-baked potatoes with chorizo are a perfect choice for a quick dinner or to impress your guests. This recipe will not only delight your taste buds but will also transform an ordinary meal into an unforgettable culinary experience.

A Brief History of the Recipe

Potatoes with chorizo are a dish that combines culinary influences from various cultures. Chorizo, a spicy pork sausage, is often associated with Spanish cuisine but has gained popularity worldwide. The combination of chorizo with potatoes has become an excellent way to create a nourishing and flavorful dish, perfect for any occasion. Adding unique spices, such as those from Kotanyi, makes this recipe a true delicacy, bringing a fresh and innovative flair.

Preparation Time and Servings

- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Baking time: 30 minutes
- Total: 45 minutes
- Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

- 750 g potatoes (choose type A potatoes for better texture)
- 250 g chorizo (you can opt for spicy or sweet, depending on your preference)
- Salt (to taste)
- 100 ml olive oil (or vegetable oil, but olive oil adds a more intense flavor)
- 100 g parmesan (grated, for a rich taste)
- Kotanyi potato mix (or your favorite spices)
- 200 g sour cream (for the garlic sauce)
- 3 garlic cloves (for the sour cream sauce)

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the Potatoes:
- Start by peeling the potatoes. I recommend using a sharp knife to avoid accidents. Once peeled, wash them well under cold water to remove any impurities.
- Cut the potatoes into sticks, like for French fries. Make sure they are of uniform size for even baking.

2. Preparing the Chorizo:
- Slice the chorizo into thin pieces. This will allow the flavors to release more easily during baking.

3. Mixing the Ingredients:
- In a baking dish, add the cut potatoes, chorizo slices, salt (to taste), and the Kotanyi spice mix.
- Drizzle everything with olive oil. Use your hands or a spatula to mix the ingredients, ensuring each piece of potato is evenly coated with oil and spices.

4. Baking:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (fan-assisted) or 220°C (non-fan). Place the dish in the oven and let it bake for about 30 minutes. It is essential to stir the ingredients halfway through the baking time for even browning.

5. Preparing the Garlic Sour Cream Sauce:
- While the potatoes and chorizo are baking, you can prepare the garlic sauce. Mix the sour cream with the crushed garlic cloves, adding salt and pepper to taste. This sauce will add a creamy and flavorful note to the dish.

6. Serving:
- Once the potatoes are golden and crispy, remove the dish from the oven. Sprinkle the grated parmesan on top, allowing it to melt slightly from the residual heat.
- Serve the dish warm, alongside the garlic sour cream sauce. A personal suggestion would be to add a fresh green salad to balance the rich flavors.

Practical Tips

- Choosing Potatoes: Type A potatoes, such as red or new potatoes, are ideal for this recipe due to their texture. If you prefer more floury potatoes, you can use type B.
- Chorizo: Experiment with different types of chorizo to achieve varied flavors. You can opt for smoked chorizo for an extra flavor boost.
- Spices: If you don't have the Kotanyi spice mix, you can use rosemary, thyme, or even paprika. Be creative!

Possible Variations

- Adding Vegetables: You can also add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or onions, to give the dish even more vitamins and flavors.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the chorizo with marinated tofu or mushrooms to create a delicious vegetarian variant.
- Alternative Sauces: Instead of the garlic sauce, you can use a yogurt sauce with mint or even a spicy sauce for those who love intense flavors.

Nutritional Benefits

This recipe offers a balanced combination of carbohydrates from potatoes and protein from chorizo, making it nutritious. Chorizo, although high in calories, also contains iron and protein, while potatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C and fiber. Parmesan also adds calcium and protein.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen potatoes?
- It is recommended to use fresh potatoes for better texture, but you can also use frozen potatoes if necessary.

2. How can I store leftovers?
- Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or oven.

3. What drinks pair well with this dish?
- A dry white wine or a pale beer are excellent alongside this recipe. Additionally, a cold green tea can provide a pleasant contrast.

In conclusion, oven-baked potatoes with chorizo are a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a simple yet sophisticated meal. With the right spices and an easy preparation method, you can transform common ingredients into something truly special. I encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy its delicious flavors!