Lyon-style Potatoes

Lyon Potatoes: A Rustic-High Delicacy

Introduction
Lyon potatoes represent a savory recipe inspired by culinary traditions that blend the simplicity of ingredients with an elegant presentation. These potatoes, fried with onion and garlic, become a perfect main dish or a refined accompaniment to various meals. This recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Let's venture together into the preparation of these delicious potatoes!

Preparation Time
- Total time: 45 minutes
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
- Number of servings: 4

Ingredients
- 500 g thin-skinned white potatoes
- 120 g butter or melted plant-based cream
- 1 large onion, sliced into thin rings
- 2 garlic cloves, sliced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional)
- Chives, optional
- Grated cheese, optional
- Cherry tomatoes, for garnish

Ingredient Tips
Choosing the right potatoes is essential for achieving a perfect texture. Thin-skinned white potatoes are ideal as they cook evenly and have a sweet flavor. If you want to add a touch of originality, you can experiment with purple or red potatoes. Additionally, butter adds a rich flavor, but you can opt for a vegan version using plant-based cream.

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Boiling the Potatoes
Start by peeling the potatoes. Place them in a pot with salted water, bringing the water to a boil. Boil the potatoes for about 10 minutes, or until they are slightly soft but not fully cooked. This initial step will give you a perfect texture in the end. After boiling, drain them and let them cool slightly, then cut them into slices about 1 cm thick.

2. Sautéing the Onion and Garlic
In a large skillet, add half of the butter and let it melt over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté until it becomes soft and golden, about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the sliced garlic and let it cook for another 2 minutes, being careful not to burn it. Remove the onion and garlic from the skillet and set aside.

3. Frying the Potatoes
Use the same skillet to fry the potatoes. If necessary, add a little extra butter to prevent sticking. Fry the potatoes on both sides until they are golden and crispy, about 5-8 minutes. Don't forget to season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Assembling the Dish
In a baking dish (or you can continue using the skillet, depending on your preference), layer half of the fried potatoes. On top, add the onion, garlic, and chopped parsley. Cover with the remaining potatoes. If desired, you can add grated cheese and a few cherry tomatoes for a more attractive appearance. Season with salt and pepper at the end.

5. Baking
Preheat the oven to 200°C. Place the dish in the oven and let the potatoes bake for about 15 minutes, until fully cooked and the cheese, if used, melts beautifully.

6. Serving
Serve the potatoes warm, garnished with a few sprigs of fresh parsley and cherry tomatoes for a color contrast. This dish is perfect alongside a juicy steak or a fresh salad. A bottle of white wine or a refreshing lemonade will perfectly complement the meal.

Nutritional Details
This recipe contains approximately 250 calories per serving, providing a good amount of carbohydrates from the potatoes, as well as healthy fats from the butter. Potatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C, B6, and potassium, while onion and garlic offer antibacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Variations and Suggestions
You can experiment with a variety of cheeses: cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan, each offering a distinct flavor. You can also add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, to enrich the aroma. If you prefer a spicy taste, add a little chili pepper or spices like smoked paprika.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use sweet potatoes? Yes, sweet potatoes can be a delicious alternative, providing a natural sweetness.
- Is it possible to prepare these potatoes in advance? Absolutely! You can prepare the potatoes up to the baking step and keep them in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, bake them straight from the fridge.
- Can I add protein to this dish? Sure! Grilled chicken or fish are excellent options to turn this recipe into a hearty main dish.

Conclusion
Lyon potatoes are an excellent choice for any occasion, being versatile and easy to prepare. I encourage you to try this simple yet flavorful recipe and personalize it to your tastes. Enjoy your meal!