Baked potatoes

Delicious baked potato recipe with spices - A perfect choice for fasting days

In a world full of culinary options, baked potatoes remain a classic and versatile dish, perfect for any occasion. This simple and tasty recipe, inspired by the creativity of a dear friend, Lia, will delight your taste buds, especially during fasting days. Potatoes are an excellent source of carbohydrates and fiber, and by baking them, you achieve a crispy exterior and a soft interior without adding excess fat.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total: 70 minutes
Servings: 6

Necessary ingredients:
- 2 kg of potatoes (choose the best ones, such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes, which have a sweet taste and bake well)
- Spices for fried potatoes (you can use store-bought mixes or create your own)
- White pepper (for a subtle flavor)
- Sweet paprika (adds warmth and color)
- Garlic powder (for an intense taste)
- Salt (to taste)
- Nutmeg (a pinch for warmth)
- Olive oil (high quality, for a refined taste)

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preparing the potatoes:
- Start by peeling the potatoes. Use a sharp knife to remove the skin, taking care not to lose too much of the potato flesh. Choose potatoes that are firm and free of spots or bruises.
- Cut the potatoes into uniform pieces, about 4-6 cm, to ensure even cooking.

2. Boiling the potatoes:
- Place the potatoes in a large pot, fill with water, and add a teaspoon of salt. Boil the potatoes until they are soft but not fully cooked (about 10-15 minutes). Check with a fork; it should go in easily but not crumble.

3. Preparing the spices:
- In a small bowl, mix all the spices: fried potato seasoning, sweet paprika, white pepper, garlic powder, salt, and nutmeg. Adjust the amount to your liking.

4. Drizzling and seasoning:
- Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place a sheet of parchment paper on a tray and generously drizzle it with olive oil.
- Transfer the potatoes to the tray, sprinkle the spice mixture on top, and drizzle with olive oil to help form a delicious crust.

5. Baking:
- Place the tray in the oven and bake the potatoes for 20 minutes. After this period, increase the oven temperature to 200 degrees for the last 20 minutes to achieve perfect browning.

6. Serving:
- Once the potatoes are golden and crispy, remove them from the oven. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
- They can be served plain or accompanied by a garlic sauce. A delicious garlic sauce recipe would include crushed garlic mixed with a little water and a tablespoon of tomato paste, providing a note of freshness and acidity that perfectly complements the potatoes.

Variations and suggestions:
- Herb potatoes: Try adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for extra flavor.
- Cheese potatoes: At the end of baking, add a little grated cheese (e.g., Parmesan or mozzarella) for a creamy and savory taste.
- Accompaniments: This dish pairs excellently with a crunchy green salad or a side of steamed vegetables. If you want a heartier meal, try serving them alongside a chicken or fish steak.

Nutritional benefits:
Potatoes are a fantastic source of complex carbohydrates, vitamin C, vitamin B6, and potassium. They contribute to healthy digestion and provide long-lasting energy. Additionally, olive oil is rich in healthy fats and antioxidants, promoting heart health.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use sweet potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes are a delicious and healthy alternative, offering a sweet taste and soft texture.

- How can I store leftover potatoes?
Store the potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume them within 2 days. You can reheat them in the oven to bring them back to life.

- Can I make the recipe without oil?
Yes, if you want a healthier option, you can skip the oil or use cooking spray.

This baked potato recipe is not only simple but also full of flavor and versatility. I hope you enjoy every bite and share this delicious culinary experience with your loved ones! Whether it's a fasting day or you just want a healthy dish, baked potatoes with spices are the perfect choice. Bon appétit!