Stuffed potatoes

Stuffed potatoes with minced meat, a delicious and comforting dish, is perfect for a family dinner or to impress friends at a festive gathering. This recipe combines the flavors of meat with the smooth texture of potatoes, and each bite is an explosion of tastes. Over time, stuffed potatoes have been adapted and reinterpreted in many cultures, each adding a personal touch. Here’s how you can create this delicacy at home!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 12 minutes
Total time: 32 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 8 medium potatoes (choose firm potatoes that won’t disintegrate during cooking)
- 350 g minced meat (you can use beef, pork, or even a mix)
- 1/2 bell pepper (preferably red or yellow for added color)
- 1/2 onion (opt for white or yellow onion for a sweeter taste)
- 3 cloves of garlic (fresh for an intense flavor)
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil (or another quality vegetable oil)
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil (or fresh if available)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon of sage (optional, for a more aromatic flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon of rosemary (this will add a wonderful aroma to the dish)
- Sour cream, for serving (optional, but recommended for added creaminess)

Tools:
- A baking tray
- A frying pan
- A large pot for boiling
- A knife and a spoon for scooping out the potatoes

Preparation instructions:

1. Preparing the potatoes:
Start by washing the potatoes thoroughly under running water, ensuring you remove any impurities. Place the potatoes in a large pot of salted cold water and boil them over medium heat. The potatoes should be parboiled, meaning you can easily insert a toothpick, but they should not be fully cooked. This process takes about 15-20 minutes.

2. Preparing the filling:
While the potatoes are boiling, take the frying pan and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the finely chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté them over medium heat until they become translucent and slightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the minced meat. Stir constantly to avoid clumping and cook until the meat changes color.

3. Adding the spices:
Once the meat is cooked, add the crushed garlic, basil, salt, pepper, sage, and rosemary. Continue to sauté the mixture for 5-7 minutes. It will become very aromatic and flavorful.

4. Scooping out the potatoes:
After the potatoes are parboiled, remove them from the water and let them cool under a stream of cold water. Then, use a knife or a spoon to scoop them out, leaving about a centimeter of flesh around the edges to form the "boats" that will be filled.

5. Filling and baking:
Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F). Place the scooped-out potatoes in a baking tray, fill each potato with the meat filling, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Bake in the oven for 10-12 minutes or until the filling is thoroughly cooked and the potatoes are golden brown.

6. Serving:
Once removed from the oven, let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, with a dollop of sour cream on top, and if desired, sprinkle some fresh basil for an attractive finish.

Practical tips:
- Choosing the potatoes: Select potatoes of equal size to ensure even cooking.
- Variations: You can experiment with different types of meat, such as chicken or turkey, or even a vegetarian filling using mushrooms, cheese, and vegetables.
- Serving: These stuffed potatoes pair wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a side of steamed vegetables.

Nutritional information:
This stuffed potato recipe offers a balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats. Each serving contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the type of meat used and the amount of sour cream. Potatoes are an excellent source of fiber, while minced meat provides essential protein. Garlic not only adds flavor but also health benefits, being known for its antioxidant properties.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use sweet potatoes? Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will add a hint of sweetness to the dish.
- Is the recipe suitable for vegans? You can adapt the recipe using soy meat or vegetables as filling, replacing the sour cream with a vegan sauce.
- Can I prepare the recipe in advance? Yes, you can prepare the filling a day ahead, and you can scoop and bake the potatoes before serving.

In conclusion, this stuffed potato recipe with minced meat is not only simple but also versatile. I invite you to put your personal touch on it by adding your favorite spices or ingredients. Whether you choose to serve it at a family dinner or a gathering with friends, you are sure to impress with this dish! Enjoy your meal!