Potato dish with thyme

Thyme Potato Dish: A Comforting and Flavorful Recipe

Who doesn’t love a warm, comforting meal that brings back memories of family time? Thyme potato dish is a simple yet delicious recipe that combines pantry staples with the fresh flavors of herbs. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also a burst of flavors that will delight you every time.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 500 g white potatoes
- 2 medium onions
- 1 medium carrot
- 2 garlic cloves
- 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
- 2 large tomatoes
- 1 bell pepper
- 50 ml sunflower oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 teaspoons of sweet paprika
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 cups of warm water

Recipe history:
Thyme potato dish is a recipe that has been passed down through generations, deeply rooted in culinary tradition. Potatoes, a staple ingredient in many kitchens, are combined with vegetables and aromatic herbs, creating a dish that not only nourishes but also delights the senses. Thyme, with its distinct aroma, adds a note of freshness and complexity, transforming this dish into a true feast.

Step by step in preparing thyme potato dish:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling the potatoes, carrot, onion, and bell pepper. Cut the potatoes into cubes of about 2 cm, the onion into thin slices, the carrot into rounds, and the bell pepper into small cubes. Dice the tomatoes and finely slice the garlic.

2. Heating the oil: In a large pot, add the sunflower oil and heat it over medium heat. Make sure the oil is well heated before adding the vegetables to achieve an even frying.

3. Frying the vegetables: Add the onion, carrot, bell pepper, and potatoes to the hot oil. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent sticking. This step is important as the initial frying will intensify the flavors.

4. Adding spices: When the vegetables become slightly translucent, add the bay leaf, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine the flavors. The sweet paprika will give a beautiful color and a slightly smoky taste.

5. Boiling: Add the two cups of warm water to the pot and let everything boil for 10 minutes. This will help the vegetables soften and create a delicious base for the dish.

6. Adding tomatoes and garlic: After the boiling time, add the diced tomatoes and garlic slices. The garlic will add a strong and aromatic flavor that will blend perfectly with the other ingredients.

7. Final cooking: Now you have two options: either place the pot in the oven at 180°C for about 20 minutes or continue to boil over medium heat. The choice of cooking method depends on your preferences – the oven will intensify the flavors, while boiling will keep the dish moister.

8. Serving: Once the dish is ready, remove the bay leaf and thyme sprigs. Serve the thyme potato dish warm, sprinkled with a little chopped fresh parsley for an extra touch of color and flavor.

Practical tips:
- Choosing potatoes: Use white potatoes, which have a higher starch content, making them creamier after cooking.
- Customizing the recipe: You can add other vegetables, such as zucchini or peas, for a more varied dish.
- Flavor enhancements: If you like a spicier taste, add a sliced chili pepper or a bit of cayenne pepper.
- Storing leftovers: This dish keeps well in the fridge and is even better the next day when the flavors have had time to meld.

Nutritional benefits:
Potatoes are an excellent source of carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals, especially vitamin C and potassium. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, and onions and garlic are known for their antioxidant properties. This recipe is a nutritious option, perfect for a family meal.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of white potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes will offer a different but very pleasant taste and add extra nutrients.

2. What other herbs can I use instead of thyme?
Oregano or rosemary are excellent alternatives that can add a distinct flavor to your dish.

3. How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
The recipe is already vegetarian but can also be adapted for vegans by ensuring no animal products are used.

Delicious combinations:
Thyme potato dish pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or a tomato and cucumber salad. Additionally, a serving of yogurt or sour cream alongside the dish can provide a creamy contrast, adding extra flavor.

This thyme potato dish recipe is not only a delicious option for a family meal but also an opportunity to experiment with your favorite flavors and ingredients. Whether you prepare it for a dinner with friends or a family meal, the result will always be satisfying. Enjoy your meal!