The magic bag

Delicious baked potato recipe with meat and fresh salad

When it comes to simple yet flavorful lunches, today’s recipe is definitely a favorite. This dish combines crispy baked potatoes with tender and flavorful meat, alongside a fresh cabbage and carrot salad, offering a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Plus, it’s a recipe that doesn’t require advanced cooking skills and will bring joy to any family table.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 80 minutes
Servings: 4

Recipe history
Baked potato and meat dishes are a classic in many kitchens around the world. Over time, each culture has added its own influences, but the essence remains the same: a nourishing and comforting meal, perfect for enjoying with family. Potatoes, the "kings of vegetables," have been appreciated since ancient times, and the combination with meat quickly became a staple in many households.

Ingredients
- 10 medium potatoes
- 500 g pork neck (or beef, if you prefer)
- 4-5 cloves of garlic
- Spices: salt, pepper, sweet/spicy paprika, rosemary, thyme, spicy mix (according to preferences)
- 1 small cabbage
- 2 carrots
- 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2-3 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar

Preparing the potatoes and meat
1. Prepare the potatoes: Wash the potatoes well under cold running water to remove any impurities. Peel them and cut them into slices or cubes, according to your preference. Make sure all pieces are of similar size for even baking.

2. Season the potatoes: In a plastic bag or a large bowl, place the cut potatoes. Add salt, pepper, paprika, rosemary, thyme, and crushed garlic. Mix well, ensuring each piece is coated with spices. The magic bag is a great trick as it helps distribute the flavors evenly.

3. Prepare the meat: Cut the pork neck into cubes or slices, according to your preference. Repeat the seasoning process with the same spices used for the potatoes. If you want extra flavor, you can also add a little olive oil to the mix.

4. Bake the ingredients: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the potatoes and meat on a baking tray, lined with parchment paper or greased with oil. Ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed for proper baking. Put the tray in the oven and bake for about 60 minutes, stirring occasionally for even browning.

Preparing the cabbage and carrot salad
1. Chopping the vegetables: While the potatoes and meat are baking, you can prepare the salad. Cut the cabbage into thin strips and grate the carrots. You can use a grater or a food processor to speed up the process.

2. Mix the salad: In a large bowl, combine the cabbage and carrot. Add olive oil and balsamic vinegar, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to evenly distribute the dressing.

Serving
Once the potatoes and meat are golden and crispy, remove the tray from the oven. Place portions of potatoes and meat on plates alongside a generous serving of fresh salad. This combination not only looks good but also offers a delicious contrast between the warmth of the potatoes and the freshness of the salad.

Practical tips
- You can experiment with spices to your taste. For example, adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano can bring an extra note.
- If you want a healthier option, you can replace the pork neck with chicken or turkey breast.
- Potatoes can be replaced with other root vegetables, such as carrots or parsnips, for a more colorful and varied alternative.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes? Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will add a touch of sweetness and extra vitamins.
- What other types of meat can I use? Besides pork neck, you can opt for chicken or beef, depending on your preferences.
- How healthy is this recipe? This recipe is rich in carbohydrates from potatoes, protein from meat, and vitamins from vegetables. It can be a nutritious choice, especially if you choose to use lean meat and plenty of vegetables.

This baked potato recipe with meat and fresh salad is not only simple but also extremely satisfying. Try making it and let yourself be carried away by its delicious flavors! Enjoy your meal!