French fries

French fries with cheese and smoked sausage - a simple and comforting delight

Today, I invite you to discover a delicious recipe for French fries, made in my personal style, that will bring warmth and flavor to every meal. These fries are perfectly cooked, enriched with cheese, smoked sausage, and aromatic spices, making them ideal for a simple dinner or to impress guests on a special occasion. Let's embark on this culinary journey together!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients

- 1 kg potatoes (choose medium-sized, firm-textured potatoes)
- 150 g cheese (sheep cheese or feta are excellent options)
- 200 g smoked cheese (adds a distinct and delicious flavor)
- 500 ml sour cream (opt for full-fat sour cream for a rich taste)
- 2 eggs (fresh eggs, preferably from free-range hens)
- 300 g smoked sausage (you can also use ham or bacon, depending on your preference)
- Oregano (dried or fresh, for flavor)
- Basil (fresh, for a touch of freshness)
- Salt (to taste)
- Parsley (for garnish, freshly chopped)

The story behind the recipe

French fries, despite their name, are actually a dish rooted in the culinary traditions of many cultures. This recipe is a perfect combination of simple yet flavorful ingredients that transform a staple ingredient like potatoes into a comforting delight. Over the years, each cook has added a personal touch, and I am excited to share my version, which combines cheese, smoked sausage, and aromatic spices for an unforgettable taste.

Step by step: How to prepare French fries

Step 1: Preparing the potatoes
Start by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into thin slices. It's important to have uniform slices to ensure even cooking. You can use a sharp knife or a mandoline to achieve perfect slices.

Step 2: Boiling the potatoes
Place the peeled potatoes in cold water with a little salt and boil them for about 10 minutes. The goal is to soften them slightly, but not to cook them completely. After boiling, drain them and let them cool for a bit.

Step 3: Preparing the cheese and sausage
Grate the cheese and smoked cheese, ensuring they are well mixed. Cut the smoked sausage into small pieces for even distribution among the potatoes.

Step 4: Preparing the mixture
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with the sour cream and a pinch of salt, then add the basil and oregano. This mixture will provide creaminess and flavor to the dish.

Step 5: Assembling the dish
Grease a baking dish with a little oil to prevent sticking. Place a first layer of potato slices, followed by a layer of cheese, smoked cheese, and sausage. Repeat this process with another layer of potatoes.

Step 6: Pouring the mixture
Over the last layer of potatoes, carefully pour the egg and sour cream mixture, ensuring everything is well covered. This will create a delicious crust during baking.

Step 7: Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes or until the potatoes are golden and crispy on top.

Step 8: Finishing and serving
Finally, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Serving suggestions

These French fries are delicious served alongside a fresh salad of tomatoes, bell peppers, and onions, which adds a contrast of textures and flavors. A simple vinaigrette made from olive oil and balsamic vinegar will perfectly complement this dish.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! You can experiment with various types of cheese, such as gouda, mozzarella, or even cheddar. Each will add a unique flavor to the dish.

2. What else can I add to the recipe?
Adding vegetables like sautéed onions or mushrooms can bring extra flavor and texture. Additionally, for a spicy kick, try adding chili peppers or hot sauce.

3. What is the nutritional value of this dish?
This recipe provides a significant amount of carbohydrates from the potatoes, protein from the eggs and sausage, and fats from the sour cream and cheese. It’s a hearty meal, perfect for chilly days.

4. What drinks pair best with French fries?
A cold pale lager or a dry white wine are excellent options that complement the rich flavors of the dish.

Possible variations

If you want to turn this recipe into a vegetarian dish, simply omit the sausage and add more vegetables. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, to add unique flavor notes.

Conclusion

French fries with cheese and smoked sausage represent a comforting dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious meal that will delight everyone who tastes it. I encourage you to experiment with the ingredients and add your own personal touches, turning this recipe into a part of your family’s culinary tradition. Enjoy your meal!