Potato pudding with eggs, ham, and olives

Potato Pudding with Eggs, Ham, and Olives - A Comforting Delicacy

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: about 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Welcome to my kitchen! Today I will share with you a delicious and comforting recipe for potato pudding with eggs, ham, and olives. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. Because it is easy to prepare and full of flavors, it is an excellent choice for any cooking enthusiast.

A brief history of potato pudding

Potato pudding has deep roots in culinary traditions, being appreciated for its versatility. Whether served as a main dish or as a side, this recipe has evolved over time, borrowing influences from different cultures. With a combination of simple ingredients like potatoes, eggs, and cheese, the pudding becomes a hearty and comforting meal, ideal for enjoying on chilly days.

Essential ingredients

- 5 medium potatoes, peeled
- 300 g cheese (preferably cottage cheese or telemea), grated
- 200 g sour cream
- 100 g grated cheese
- Salt, to taste
- 100 g ham (kaiser, bacon, or any other type), finely chopped
- A few green olives, sliced
- 1 egg (to bind the mixture)
- 4 eggs (or more, depending on how many servings you want)

Step by step - Preparing the potato pudding

1. Prepare the potatoes: Start by peeling the 5 potatoes. Slice them into thin rounds, about 1 cm thick. Place them in a pot of water and add a little salt. Boil the potatoes for 25-30 minutes until they are soft but not fully cooked.

2. Preheat the oven: While the potatoes are boiling, preheat the oven to 180°C. This step is essential to ensure even browning of the pudding.

3. Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the grated cheese, sour cream, and beaten egg. If using unsalted cheese, add up to 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mix well to obtain a homogeneous mixture.

4. Arrange the potatoes in the baking dish: Grease a baking dish with oil. Layer the boiled potatoes evenly, forming a solid base for the pudding.

5. Create indentations for the eggs: Using a spoon, create indentations in the potatoes for each portion of eggs. This will help keep the eggs separate, giving them a nice presentation.

6. Add the filling: Pour the cheese and sour cream mixture over the potatoes, making sure to cover evenly. Add the finely chopped ham and olive slices for extra flavor.

7. Place the eggs: In each indentation created earlier, crack an egg. These eggs will help create a creamy and delicious texture.

8. Finish the dish: Grate cheese on top of the pudding, giving it a golden and appetizing crust.

9. Bake the pudding: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the eggs are well cooked and the cheese is browned.

10. Serve: The potato pudding is served warm, ideally alongside a fresh green salad or a side of steamed vegetables.

Helpful tips for a perfect result

- Choose quality potatoes: Use low-starch potatoes for a better texture. Red potatoes or new potatoes are excellent options.
- Vegetarian option: You can replace the ham with sautéed mushrooms or vegetables of your choice for a delicious vegetarian option.
- Add herbs: Oregano or dill added to the cheese mixture can provide an extra flavor boost.
- Control the salt: If using salty cheese, adjust the amount of salt used in the recipe to avoid an overly salty taste.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can use cheddar, gouda, or any preferred cheese, but make sure it is well grated for even melting.

2. How can I store the potato pudding?
The pudding stores well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave.

3. What drinks pair well with this pudding?
A dry white wine or fresh lemonade are excellent choices that perfectly complement the flavor of the pudding.

Nutritional benefits

This potato pudding is rich in protein due to the eggs and cheese, providing a hearty meal. Potatoes are an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, and olives bring healthy fats and antioxidants.

Possible variations

- Add vegetables: Grated carrots, zucchini, or spinach can be incorporated into the cheese mixture to enrich the dish.
- Spices: Experiment with spices like paprika or black pepper to enhance the flavors.

This potato pudding with eggs, ham, and olives is not only a simple and quick recipe but also an excellent way to bring together favorite ingredients into a delicious meal. Get inspired, experiment, and enjoy every bite! Bon appétit!