Baked potato dish

Oven-baked potato dish - a simple and delicious recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40-45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4-6

Who doesn't love a warm and comforting dish that fills your soul and makes you feel at home? Oven-baked potato dish is one of those simple recipes, yet full of flavor, that will remind you of family meals and moments spent with loved ones. This version of baked potatoes is better than the classic boiled one, thanks to the perfectly blended flavors and the crispy texture from the oven.

The history of this recipe is rich in traditions. Oven-baked potato dish is a preparation that has been enjoyed for generations, in various forms and combinations. The potato, a versatile ingredient, has managed to integrate into the cuisine of many cultures, becoming a staple in many dishes. This simple recipe will show you how to transform potatoes into a special dish.

Ingredients:

- 1 kg potatoes
- 1 large onion
- 1 bunch of green onions
- 1 green bell pepper
- 1 red bell pepper
- 3 tomatoes
- 50 ml oil
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 bunch of dill
- salt
- pepper

Preparation:

1. Start by preparing the ingredients. Peel the potatoes and cut them into uniform-sized cubes to ensure even cooking. This step is essential because potatoes cut too large will cook slower, while those too small may turn into mush. Also, if you use thin-skinned potatoes, you can choose to leave them unpeeled for added nutrients and texture.

2. Continue with the vegetables. Peel the onion, bell peppers, and tomatoes, then chop them finely. The onion will add sweetness, the bell peppers will bring a mild flavor, and the tomatoes will provide a touch of acidity, thus balancing the taste of the dish.

3. In a heat-resistant dish or pot, add the oil and start building the delicious layers. Place a layer of potatoes, followed by a layer of vegetables (onion, bell peppers, and tomatoes). Sprinkle salt, pepper, and optionally, seasoning for extra flavor.

4. Repeat the process, adding layers of potatoes and vegetables until the dish is full. Make sure the last layer is of potatoes, which will become crispy and golden in the oven.

5. Dilute the tomato paste with water to achieve a fluid consistency, then pour the mixture into the pot, ensuring it covers the potatoes. This step is important as the sauce will infuse the flavors and keep the dish moist.

6. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the pot in the oven and let it bake for 40-45 minutes. During this time, the flavors will combine, and the potatoes will cook perfectly. Don’t forget to stir occasionally to ensure everything cooks evenly.

7. Near the end, add the finely chopped dill. Fresh dill will bring an extra freshness and a slightly anise-like taste, perfect to complement the potato dish.

8. The dish is ready when the liquid has reduced, and the potatoes have a golden color and are browned on the surface. These are signs that your dish is perfectly cooked.

Serving:

Oven-baked potato dish can be enjoyed alongside a fresh salad or pickles, which will add a contrast of textures and flavors. It can also be served as a side dish with other preparations, such as grilled meat or fish.

Useful tips:

- You can also add other vegetables, such as zucchini or eggplant, to diversify the recipe.
- If you like a spicier taste, add some chopped hot pepper.
- Make sure not to add too much water to avoid a watery dish. The potatoes will also release water during baking.

Nutritional information (per serving):

- Calories: approximately 300 kcal
- Fat: 12 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Protein: 5 g

This oven-baked potato dish is not only tasty but also nutritious, offering a good balance of carbohydrates, fiber, and vitamins.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes can be an excellent alternative, bringing a slightly sweeter taste and a different texture.

2. Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Sure! You can prepare all the ingredients a few hours ahead and keep them in the fridge until you're ready to put them in the oven.

3. How can I adapt the recipe for vegetarian or vegan diets?
This recipe is already vegetarian. Make sure to use a tomato paste without animal-derived additives to make it completely vegan.

In conclusion, oven-baked potato dish is a versatile, easy-to-make preparation full of flavors. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a comforting dish, perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to try this recipe and adapt it according to your preferences. Enjoy your meal!