Oven-baked potatoes with mushrooms

Baked Potatoes with Mushrooms Recipe

Who doesn't love a warm, comforting meal that brings a touch of joy to the plate? Baked potatoes with mushrooms are a savory dish that's easy to make, combining the soft texture of potatoes with the rich aroma and flavor of mushrooms. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or as a delicious appetizer at a party. Let's see together how we can transform a few potatoes and mushrooms into a culinary masterpiece.

Preparation Time
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Baking Time: 30 minutes
- Total: 70 minutes
- Servings: 4

Ingredients
- 4 medium potatoes (approximately 800 g)
- 200 g fresh mushrooms (or canned)
- ½ red bell pepper
- 1 green onion
- 1 egg
- A handful of fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Butter for greasing the pan
- 2 tablespoons of broth
- 3 tablespoons of oil
- 3 tablespoons of water
- A cup of water (approximately 250 ml)

The Story Behind the Recipe
Stuffed potato recipes have been appreciated throughout time in various cuisines around the world. These dishes are not only nutritious but also extremely versatile, as they can be adapted to individual preferences. In today's recipe, we focus on the delicious combination of mushrooms, onion, and bell pepper, but imagination is the limit!

Step by Step: Preparing Baked Potatoes with Mushrooms

Step 1: Boiling the Potatoes
Start by putting a pot of water on the stove and adding the unpeeled potatoes. Boil them for 20-25 minutes until they become slightly soft but not fully cooked. Then, transfer them to cold water to stop the cooking process.

Helpful Tip: If you are using new potatoes, you can boil them for less time, as they are more tender.

Step 2: Preparing the Filling
Once the potatoes have cooled, carefully peel them. Cut them in half and, using a spoon, scoop out the insides so that the potatoes resemble little boats. Keep the insides for the filling!

In the meantime, finely chop the onion and sauté it in a pan with 3 tablespoons of oil and 3 tablespoons of water. Add the diced mushrooms and thinly sliced bell pepper. Sauté everything until softened, about 5-7 minutes.

Important Detail: Use fresh mushrooms for a more intense flavor. If you choose canned mushrooms, make sure to drain them well before using.

Step 3: Combining the Ingredients
When the mushrooms and onion are ready, add the peeled and diced tomatoes along with the previously scooped potato insides. Add the chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and sweet paprika for a more complex flavor. Let the mixture cook for another 2-3 minutes, then turn off the heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 4: Adding the Egg
Once the mixture has cooled, beat the egg and add it to the mix. Stir well until you achieve a homogeneous mixture.

Suggestion: If you want a vegan version, you can omit the egg without affecting the dish's flavor.

Step 5: Filling the Potatoes
Fill each half of the potato with the mushroom mixture, making sure it is well packed so it doesn't fall apart during baking. Place the stuffed potatoes in a greased baking dish.

Step 6: Preparing the Sauce
In a bowl, mix a cup of water with 2 tablespoons of broth and a little salt. Pour the sauce over the stuffed potatoes in the dish. This step will help retain moisture, making the potatoes tastier.

Step 7: Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C and bake the dish for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden and crispy.

Serving
Baked potatoes with mushrooms are served warm, with sour cream, grated cheese, or alongside a fresh vegetable salad. This dish is not only delicious but also a true feast!

Delicious Pairings: You can accompany this dish with a glass of white wine or a fragrant herbal tea, turning dinner into an unforgettable experience.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits
This recipe is rich in fiber due to the potatoes and vegetables, providing a good source of vitamins and minerals. One serving contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the portion of sour cream or cheese added.

Benefits: Mushrooms are an excellent source of antioxidants, contributing to immune system health, while potatoes provide complex carbohydrates essential for energy.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes? Yes, sweet potatoes will add a sweet note and a wonderful different flavor!
- How can I store leftover potatoes? They can be stored in the refrigerator, covered, for 2-3 days. Reheat them in the oven to restore the crispy texture.
- Can I add other vegetables to the filling? Absolutely! Increasing the variety of vegetables enhances both flavor and nutritional value.

Possible Variations
- For a vegetarian version: Replace the mushrooms with seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini or eggplant.
- For an extra flavor boost: Add spices like oregano or rosemary to the mushroom filling.

I wish you great success in preparing this delicious dish! With a little effort, you will bring to the table a savory dish that will delight family and friends. Happy cooking!