Stuffed potatoes

Potatoes are a versatile and delicious vegetable, and this recipe transforms them into a savory dish, perfect for a family meal or with friends. The first step is to take care of the potatoes. We wash them very well under a stream of cold water, making sure to remove any impurities. Then, we bake them in the microwave for about 10-12 minutes, until they become soft but not fully cooked. This step will help us reduce the baking time in the oven later, ensuring we get potatoes with a perfect texture.

While the potatoes cool, we can focus on the filling. In a pan, we heat olive oil and add thinly sliced mushrooms. We sauté them over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden and release their flavors. Then, we add the sliced carrot, which will bring a touch of sweetness and color to the dish. After the vegetables have softened, we add vegetable concentrate, which will enhance the flavor of the filling. We let the mixture simmer on low heat to allow the flavors to meld.

The next step is to add the washed and drained rice, mixing well to incorporate it into the sautéed vegetables. We continue to sauté the mixture for a few minutes, so the rice absorbs some of the vegetable flavors. Then, we add four cups of water and leave everything on low heat, covered, until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the liquid. When the rice is cooked, we add the diced bell pepper, which will add a crunchy texture and fresh taste. We season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing well.

Once the filling is ready, we return to the cooled potatoes. We carefully peel them so as not to damage them. The larger potatoes we cut in half lengthwise, and the smaller ones we cut into quarters. Using a teaspoon or a knife, we scoop out the insides of the potatoes, making sure to leave a thin wall so we can fill them later. The scooped-out insides can be added to the filling, adding extra flavor.

We fill the potatoes with the rice and vegetable mixture, making sure they are well packed. We place the stuffed potatoes in a glass dish, preparing a sour cream sauce to give a creamy note to the dish. In a bowl, we mix the sour cream with a tablespoon of flour, salt, and pepper, ensuring there are no lumps. We pour the sauce over the stuffed potatoes, letting it soak in well.

Before putting them in the oven, we sprinkle a bit of grated cheese on top, which will melt and form a delicious crust. We place the dish in the preheated oven at 180°C and let the potatoes bake for about 20 minutes, or until they are golden and the cheese crust is nicely browned. Finally, we serve the potatoes warm, alongside a fresh salad or a side of vegetables. Enjoy your meal!