Spicy drumsticks with baked potatoes

Spicy Drumsticks with Baked Potatoes - A Delicious and Flavorful Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 50-60 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 5-10 minutes
Servings: 4

Welcome to the world of enticing flavors! Today, I will share with you a simple and delicious recipe for spicy drumsticks with baked potatoes, perfect for a family dinner or a meal with friends. This dish is not only nutritious but also full of flavor, and the combination of juicy drumsticks and crispy potatoes will make you fall in love with it!

Microhistory of the Recipe

Chicken drumsticks are a versatile ingredient, appreciated in kitchens around the world. Baked, they become tender and aromatic, while potatoes, a staple food, add a boost of texture and flavor. This recipe combines simple cooking techniques with spice combinations that evoke pleasant childhood memories when Sunday meals were filled with aromas and laughter.

Necessary Ingredients

- 10 chicken drumsticks
- 500 g potatoes (preferably red or yellow potatoes)
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon hot paprika (optional, for extra spiciness)
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tablespoons breadcrumbs
- 5 tablespoons olive oil
- Pickles or summer salad (for serving)

Ingredient Details

- Chicken drumsticks: Choose fresh drumsticks with thin skin for a crispy crust. You can opt for naturally raised chicken for a more intense flavor.
- Potatoes: Red or yellow potatoes have a creamy texture and easily absorb spices. Make sure to choose smooth-skinned ones without blemishes.
- Spices: Sweet and hot paprika add a special note, while garlic enhances the aroma. If you have fresh herbs on hand, don’t hesitate to use them!
- Breadcrumbs: This will help create a crispy crust. You can use whole wheat breadcrumbs for a healthier option.

Step by Step - Preparing Spicy Drumsticks

1. Preparing the drumsticks: Start by washing the chicken drumsticks thoroughly under cold running water. After washing, dry them with paper towels.

2. Preparing the potatoes: Peel the potatoes, then wash them again to remove any impurities. Cut them into quarters or sixths, depending on their size.

3. Mixing the spices: In a bowl, combine the sweet paprika, hot paprika, pepper, salt, thyme, minced garlic, and breadcrumbs. This mixture will give the drumsticks an intense aroma and delicious flavor.

4. Coating the drumsticks and potatoes: Place the drumsticks and potatoes in a large plastic bag. Add the spice mixture and olive oil. Seal the bag tightly and shake it vigorously to ensure even coating.

5. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180-200°C. Arrange the drumsticks and potatoes in a greased baking dish. Add 100 ml of water to the dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake in the oven for 30-40 minutes.

6. Browning the drumsticks: After the time is up, remove the aluminum foil and leave the dish in the oven for another 10-15 minutes to achieve a golden and crispy crust.

7. Serving: Remove the drumsticks and potatoes from the oven and place them on a platter. Serve alongside pickles or a summer salad made of tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and bell peppers, drizzled with olive oil. This combination will bring a fresh and refreshing contrast.

Practical Tips

- Spice varieties: You can experiment with different spices, such as cumin, oregano, or even a barbecue spice mix, depending on your preferences.
- Vegetarian alternative: If you prefer a meatless version, replace the drumsticks with cauliflower or mushrooms, marinating them in the same spice mixture.
- Cooking in advance: This recipe is perfect for preparing in advance and reheating. You can make the drumsticks a day ahead and pop them in the oven to warm them up before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use another type of meat? Absolutely! This recipe can be adapted for chicken, turkey, or even pork, but cooking times may vary.
- What can I do with leftovers? If you have leftover drumsticks, you can use them in salads, sandwiches, or soups to avoid waste.
- What are the nutritional values? A serving of spicy drumsticks with potatoes contains approximately 450-500 calories, being a good source of protein and carbohydrates.

Conclusion

This recipe for spicy drumsticks with baked potatoes is not only easy to prepare but also extremely versatile. You can adapt it to your preferences, experiment with various spices, and serve it alongside fresh salads or pickles. I encourage you to try it and enjoy every bite! Bon appétit!