Rustic potatoes

Recipe for Rustic Potatoes with Smoked Pork Neck and Parmesan

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4

Who doesn't love a delicious side dish that perfectly complements a roast or can be enjoyed alongside warm polenta? Today, I propose a simple yet flavorful recipe: Rustic Potatoes with Smoked Pork Neck and Parmesan. This dish is easy to make, and the result is simply delicious!

History

Rustic potatoes are a classic dish often associated with traditional meals. They are a perfect combination of simple yet flavorful ingredients that nature provides. The smoked pork neck adds an extra layer of flavor, while the parmesan brings a creamy touch to the mix. This recipe can vary based on available ingredients, making it versatile and adaptable.

Ingredients

- 4 large potatoes (preferably red or yellow potatoes for their creamy texture)
- 1 large onion (white or yellow onion is ideal)
- 100 g of smoked pork neck (you can also use bacon for a similar taste)
- 100 g of parmesan (or cheese, depending on your preferences)
- 50 g of butter (for a richer taste)
- Olive oil (for greasing the dish)

Instructions

1. Preparing the potatoes: Start by washing the potatoes well under cold running water, removing any impurities. Boil them in a large pot with water and a pinch of salt, making sure to boil them with the skin on to retain all the flavor and nutrients. Whether you boil them for 20-25 minutes or until you can easily pierce them with a fork, this will let you know they are ready.

2. Preparing the onion and meat: In a skillet, add the butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion for 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes translucent. Then add the diced smoked pork neck. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the pork is lightly browned, about 8-10 minutes.

3. Cutting the potatoes: Once the potatoes are boiled, remove them from the water and let them cool slightly. Peel them and cut them into cubes of about 2-3 cm. These will absorb the flavors from the skillet, giving the final dish a delicious taste.

4. Assembling the dish: Preheat the oven to 180°C. In a heat-resistant dish, add a splash of olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the potato cubes and add the onion mixture with the sautéed pork. Grate the parmesan and add it on top of the mixture. Gently mix to combine the ingredients, being careful not to crush the potatoes.

5. Baking: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the oven for 30 minutes. After this time, remove the foil to allow a delicious brown crust to form on top. Bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the crust becomes golden and crispy.

6. Serving: Once the dish is ready, you can take it out of the oven and, if desired, add a bit more parmesan on top. Serve it warm, alongside a juicy roast or, for a vegetarian option, with creamy polenta and pickled cucumbers.

Practical tips

- Choosing ingredients: Use low-starch potatoes for a better texture. Smoked pork neck or bacon provides a rich flavor, but you can also opt for a vegetarian version using mushrooms or smoked tofu.
- Cheese variation: If you don't have parmesan on hand, cheese is an excellent choice. You can also experiment with local cheeses for a unique flavor.
- Preserving flavors: If you want a more intense taste, you can add some herbs like rosemary or thyme, either in the onion mixture or directly in the potato dish.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use peeled potatoes?
Although not recommended, you can use peeled potatoes. However, the skin adds extra flavor and an interesting texture.

2. How can I store leftovers?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave.

3. What other side dishes go well with this?
These potatoes pair perfectly with a fresh green salad or pickles. Additionally, a yogurt sauce or a spicy tomato sauce could complement them well.

Nutritional benefits

This recipe offers a balance between healthy carbohydrates from potatoes, protein from meat, and healthy fats from butter. Potatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C and B6, while smoked pork neck provides protein and essential minerals. Parmesan adds calcium and protein, making it a good choice for a balanced diet.

Calories

A serving of Rustic Potatoes with Smoked Pork Neck and Parmesan contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of cheese and meat used. It is a satisfying choice, but don't overdo the portions, especially if you want to control your caloric intake!

Variations

- Vegetarian: Replace the smoked pork neck with sautéed vegetables like zucchini or eggplant for a tasty vegetarian version.
- Spices: You can add spices like paprika, black pepper, or garlic to enhance the flavors.

I wish you success in preparing this delicious dish! Don't forget to experiment with the ingredients and put your personal touch on the recipe. This way, you'll turn every meal into a celebration of flavors! Enjoy your meal!