Potatoes with sour cream and garlic baked

Oven-Baked Potatoes with Sour Cream and Garlic: An Unforgettable Delicacy

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4-6

On a winter day, when the cold outside urges us to gather around a warm table, a recipe for oven-baked potatoes with sour cream and garlic becomes the perfect solution. This recipe, which I recently discovered, brings a touch of comfort in every serving. Moreover, it is easy to prepare and pairs wonderfully with various meat dishes, turning every meal into a feast.

Recipe History

Oven-baked potatoes have a long history, being a versatile dish that has gained popularity worldwide. This dish combines the simplicity of ingredients with the richness of flavors. Garlic, known for its health benefits, and sour cream, a creamy ingredient that adds a touch of refinement, transform potatoes into a delicacy that can be enjoyed at any meal.

Ingredients

- 6-7 large potatoes (approximately 1.5 kg)
- 4-5 cloves of garlic
- 500 g sour cream
- 200 g grated cheese
- 2 egg yolks
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- A little grated cheese (optional, for a more intense flavor)
- Oil for frying

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the Potatoes
Start by peeling the potatoes and washing them well under cold running water. Make sure to remove any impurities. Slice them thinly, about 0.5 cm thick, to ensure even baking. If you have a sharp knife or a special potato slicer, use it to achieve perfect slices.

2. Frying the Potatoes
In a deep skillet or pot, add oil and let it heat up. You can use an old, historic pan that gives you an emotional connection to cooking. Add the potato slices and fry them over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until they become lightly golden but not fully cooked (about 5-7 minutes). The goal is to achieve a crispy texture on the outside while remaining soft on the inside.

3. Preparing the Sour Cream Mixture
In a bowl, combine the sour cream, finely chopped garlic, grated cheese, egg yolks, salt, and pepper. Mix well until you achieve a homogeneous composition. The garlic will add a vibrant flavor, while the cheese will melt perfectly, providing a creamy texture.

4. Assembling
After frying the potatoes, remove them from the skillet and place them in a baking dish. Pour the sour cream mixture over the potatoes and gently mix to ensure each potato slice is evenly covered. Grate a little cheese on top for added flavor.

5. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the baking dish in the oven and let it bake for 30-40 minutes or until the top becomes golden and appetizing. This is the moment when the aroma will fill the entire kitchen, so get ready to whet your appetite.

6. Serving
When the potatoes are ready, take them out of the oven and let them cool slightly. Serving is an art, so you might choose to pair them with smoked and fried pork ribs, which will perfectly complement this delicious dish. A fresh green salad can add a pleasant contrast and a touch of freshness.

Tips and Useful Advice

- Choosing Potatoes: Opt for "măciuca" or "Yukon Gold" potatoes, as they have a creamy texture and bake evenly.
- Fresh Garlic: Use fresh garlic, as it will provide a more intense flavor compared to powdered garlic.
- Variations: You can add herbs like rosemary or thyme to the sour cream mixture to enhance the flavor. Additionally, experimenting with different types of cheese, such as brie or gouda, can bring a unique twist to the dish.
- Calories and Nutritional Benefits: A serving of potatoes with sour cream and garlic (approximately 200g) contains around 350-400 calories, depending on the ingredients used. Potatoes are an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, while garlic offers anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes will add a touch of sweetness and a different flavor to your dish.

2. What can I do if I don't have sour cream?
You can use Greek yogurt or a combination of milk and butter for a similar texture.

3. Can leftovers be stored?
Yes, leftover potatoes can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven to restore their crispy texture.

4. What other dishes can they be paired with?
This dish pairs wonderfully with beef steak, grilled chicken, or even fish. A green salad or coleslaw can perfectly complement the meal.

In the end, oven-baked potatoes with sour cream and garlic are not just a recipe, but a story of comfort and the joy of being with loved ones. So embrace the art of cooking and let the aromas fill your home with warmth and cheer. Enjoy your meal!