Potatoes like grandma used to make

Grandma's Potatoes – A Recipe Full of Nostalgia and Good Taste

Who doesn't fondly remember the home-cooked meals, where the aroma of baked potatoes filled the entire house? This simple yet delicious recipe for "Grandma's Potatoes" will surely take you back to your childhood, when every meal was a celebration of flavor. The roasted potatoes, combined with the aromatic sauce, are a perfect choice for both family dinners and special occasions.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:

- 600 g potatoes (preferably white potatoes for a creamier taste)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 4-5 tablespoons of olive oil or sunflower oil
- 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika (or smoked for a more intense flavor)
- 1 heaping tablespoon of flour
- 100 ml water
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced
- 1 bay leaf
- 5 cloves of garlic, finely chopped

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by peeling the potatoes. Choose medium-sized potatoes that are uniform for even baking. Cut them into small pieces, about 2-3 cm, so they cook faster. If you prefer, you can leave the skins on for added texture.

2. Arranging the potatoes
Take a heat-resistant dish or a baking tray and place the cut potatoes in it. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste, add a tablespoon of oil and the bay leaf. Mix well to ensure all pieces are well coated with spices. Set aside for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.

3. Preparing the sauce
In a pan, heat the remaining oil over medium heat. Add the paprika and flour, stirring continuously for 1-2 minutes to avoid lumps. Gradually add the water, continuing to stir. The goal is to obtain a smooth, slightly runny sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little more water.

4. Assembling the dish
Pour the prepared sauce over the potatoes in the tray, making sure they are evenly covered. Add the diced bell pepper on top for an extra splash of color and flavor.

5. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and place the tray with the potatoes inside. Leave them in the oven for 1 hour. Check occasionally with a fork to ensure they are baked. The potatoes are ready when the fork easily pierces through them.

6. Finalizing the dish
After an hour of baking, add the finely chopped garlic on top and leave them in the oven for another 10 minutes. The garlic will give an unmistakable flavor and envelop the dish in a delicious aroma.

7. Serving
Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. You can garnish them with freshly chopped parsley for a more appealing look. These potatoes are wonderful served alongside a fresh green salad or as a side dish for roasted meat.

Useful tips:

- Ingredient variations: You can also add other vegetables like carrots or zucchini to diversify the dish. Additionally, replace the garlic with caramelized onions for a different flavor.
- The sauce: If you prefer a spicier sauce, add a few drops of chili sauce to the flour and paprika mixture.
- Storage: Leftover potatoes can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave.

Nutritional benefits:

Potatoes are an excellent source of carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. They contain vitamin C, vitamin B6, potassium, and fiber, making them a healthy and satisfying choice. Olive oil adds healthy fats, and garlic has antibacterial and antioxidant properties.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use sweet potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes provide a sweet flavor and vibrant color to your dish.

- How do I know when they are done?
The potatoes are done when they can be easily pierced with a fork. If they still feel firm, leave them in the oven for a few more minutes.

- What drinks pair well with this dish?
A dry white wine or a light beer can perfectly complement the flavor of the potatoes. Additionally, fresh lemonade would be a refreshing choice.

This "Grandma's Potatoes" recipe is not just a way to cook but an invitation to enjoy the simple and beautiful moments of life. So take your time, enjoy the cooking process, and savor every bite! Bon appétit!