Crispy potatoes with cheese

Delicious Recipe for Crispy Cheese Potatoes

If you're looking for a savory side dish or a snack that will delight your taste buds, you've come to the perfect recipe! Crispy cheese potatoes are a wonderful choice for both everyday meals and special occasions. This simple and quick recipe will transform ordinary potatoes into a treat you won't forget anytime soon.

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

Ingredients

- 2 large potatoes
- 1-2 tablespoons of oil (sunflower or olive)
- 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika (or smoked, according to preference)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Grated cheese (approximately 100 g, you can use cottage cheese, parmesan, or feta)
- Fresh dill, chopped (for serving)

Necessary utensils

- A large pot
- A sieve or colander
- A deep frying pan
- A spatula
- A sharp knife
- A cheese grater

Brief history

Potatoes were first cultivated in South America and quickly became a staple food in many cultures around the world. The recipe for crispy cheese potatoes is a perfect example of how a simple ingredient can be transformed into a delicacy. This combination of textures—crispy and creamy—makes every bite a true pleasure.

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preparing the potatoes: Start by peeling the potatoes. Use a sharp knife to remove any unpleasant parts. Once peeled, wash them thoroughly under cold running water to remove impurities.

2. Cutting the potatoes: Cut the potatoes into larger pieces, about 3-4 cm. This will help achieve a crispy texture on the outside and a soft interior.

3. Boiling the potatoes: Place the cut potatoes in the large pot and add cold water until they are covered. Add salt to the water to flavor the potatoes. Bring to a boil and let them cook for about 10-12 minutes, until they are almost cooked but not completely soft.

4. Draining the potatoes: Once the potatoes are ready, drain them well using a sieve or colander. Let them rest for a few minutes so that the excess water can evaporate.

5. Seasoning: In a large bowl, add the drained potatoes and season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Gently mix with a spatula, being careful not to mash them.

6. Frying: Heat the oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the potatoes. Fry them until golden and crispy on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to turn them occasionally for even browning.

7. Finishing: After the potatoes are browned, remove them from the pan and place them on a paper towel to absorb excess oil. Before serving, sprinkle the grated cheese on top while the potatoes are still hot so that it melts slightly. Add the chopped fresh dill for an extra touch of flavor and freshness.

Serving

These crispy cheese potatoes are delicious on their own or alongside a juicy steak or a fresh salad. You can also experiment by adding different spices, such as garlic powder or herbs, to customize the recipe to your taste. For a spicy kick, you can add a few slices of fresh chili pepper.

Variations

- Cheese and bacon potatoes: Add some cooked and crumbled bacon on top of the potatoes before sprinkling with cheese.
- Goat cheese and dill potatoes: Use goat cheese instead of regular grated cheese and sprinkle fresh dill for a more intense flavor.
- Spicy potatoes: Add a few drops of hot sauce to the frying oil for a spicy twist.

Helpful tips

- Choose the right potatoes: Potatoes with a higher starch content, such as white potatoes or those meant for mashing, are ideal for achieving a crispy texture.
- Heating the oil: Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the potatoes. If the oil isn't sufficiently heated, the potatoes will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
- Keeping them crispy: If you want to serve the potatoes later, you can assemble them but don't sprinkle with cheese until serving.

Nutritional information

This crispy cheese potato recipe is a good source of carbohydrates, with about 180 calories per serving. The cheese adds protein, while the dill provides a dose of vitamins. It's important to enjoy these dishes in moderation, especially if you're aiming to maintain a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen potatoes?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and drain well before frying.

2. How can I make the potatoes less greasy?
You can bake the potatoes in the oven with a few drops of oil for a healthier option.

3. What else can I add to the recipe?
You can experiment with different cheeses, such as cheddar or mozzarella, or add vegetables like onions or peppers.

4. How can I store leftover potatoes?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge, but note that the texture will be less crispy the next day. You can reheat them in the oven to regain their crispiness.

Enjoy these crispy cheese potatoes and let their wonderful taste take you away! Whether you serve them as an appetizer or a side dish, they are sure to be a hit at any meal. Bon appétit!