Grilled potatoes

Grilled Potatoes: A Simple and Delicious Recipe

Who doesn't love the aroma of grilled potatoes? This simple and quick recipe will transform your potatoes into a perfect delicacy for any meal, whether it's a dinner with friends, a picnic in nature, or a simple family lunch. Grilled potatoes are versatile, can be combined with various sauces and sides, and are a healthy and nutritious choice.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 5 new potatoes (approximately 335 g)
- 500 ml water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 6 black peppercorns
- Olive oil or other oil for brushing

The history of grilled potatoes is fascinating, with deep roots in global culinary culture. The potato, originally from South America, was brought to Europe centuries ago and quickly became a staple food. Cooking it on the grill adds a special touch, highlighting the natural flavor of the potato and giving it a crispy exterior and soft interior.

Step by step for grilled potatoes:

1. Preparing the potatoes: Start by washing the potatoes thoroughly under cold running water. Make sure to remove any dirt, as we will keep the skin, which adds both texture and nutrients.

2. Boiling the potatoes: In a pot, add 500 ml of water and bring it to a boil. When the water starts boiling, add a teaspoon of salt, a teaspoon of dried thyme, and the 6 black peppercorns. These spices will infuse the potatoes with delicious flavors. Add the washed potatoes to the water and let them boil for about 10-15 minutes, until they become slightly soft but not fully cooked.

3. Cooling the potatoes: After boiling, remove the potatoes with a slotted spoon and let them cool on a cutting board or platter. This step is essential as it will help us achieve a perfect crust on the grill.

4. Heating the grill: In the meantime, prepare the grill. If using a charcoal grill, make sure to light the coals at least 20 minutes before you start cooking. If using an electric grill, set it to a medium-high temperature.

5. Brushing the potatoes: Once the potatoes have cooled, lightly brush them with olive oil. This will not only help them not stick to the grill but will also add a pleasant flavor.

6. Grilling: Place the potatoes on the grill and let them brown for 5-7 minutes on each side. It is important to turn them carefully to avoid breaking them.

7. Serving: Once they are golden and crispy, remove the potatoes from the grill. You can garnish them with fresh herbs like parsley or dill and serve them alongside a yogurt sauce or flavored mayonnaise.

Practical tips for a perfect result:
- Choose new potatoes, as they have a finer texture and cook evenly.
- You can experiment with different herbs and spices, such as rosemary, garlic, or paprika, to vary the flavor.
- If you want crispier potatoes, you can leave them on the grill longer, but be careful not to burn them.

Nutritional benefits:
Potatoes are an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, vitamins (especially vitamin C and B6), and minerals (such as potassium and magnesium). By consuming grilled potatoes, you benefit from a filling and healthy dish without adding many calories to your diet. Generally, a serving of 100 g of grilled potatoes contains about 90 calories, making them an ideal choice for a balanced meal.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use regular potatoes instead of new potatoes? Yes, but it is important to boil them longer, as regular potatoes have a different texture.
- How can I store leftover potatoes? You can keep the potatoes in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 1-2 days. Reheat them on the grill or in the oven to make them crispy again.
- What can I pair grilled potatoes with? They pair wonderfully with grilled meat, fresh salads, or spicy sauces.

Possible variations:
- You can add grated cheese on top of the potatoes at the end of cooking for a delicious crust.
- If you like spicy flavors, add chili flakes to the olive oil.

A personal suggestion: for an extra touch of flavor, you can try sprinkling the potatoes with sea salt or a spice mix after removing them from the grill. This small detail will make a difference and transform a simple dish into an unforgettable culinary experience.

Now that you have the complete recipe for grilled potatoes, all that's left is to get cooking! I wish you good luck and a meal full of delicious flavors!