Mustard Crusted Potatoes

Mustard-Crusted Potatoes - a delicious and surprising recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 45-55 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Are you looking for a simple yet impactful recipe? Mustard-crusted potatoes are the perfect choice! This recipe is not only easy to make but also full of flavors that will delight your taste buds. Inspired by traditional cooking, this combination of potatoes and mustard will turn any meal into an unforgettable culinary experience.

The history of mustard-crusted potatoes is fascinating, with deep roots in rustic gastronomy, where simple ingredients were transformed through ingenious techniques. Mustard, with its strong and slightly spicy flavor, has been used over time to add a touch of flavor to potato dishes, a staple ingredient in many cultures' diets. Today, this recipe will bring you that authentic taste, along with a crunchy exterior and a soft interior.

Essential ingredients:

- 1.5 kg potatoes (choose white or yellow potatoes for a finer texture)
- 5 tablespoons mustard (you can use classic mustard or Dijon mustard for a more sophisticated note)
- 5 tablespoons sunflower oil (or you can opt for olive oil for a more intense flavor)
- 5-6 cloves garlic (fresh and aromatic)
- Half a teaspoon dried parsley (or fresh, for a splash of color)
- Salt and pepper to taste

Step by step:

1. Preparing the potatoes: Start by peeling and washing the potatoes thoroughly. Make sure to remove any impurities to achieve a clean and tasty dish. Cut the potatoes into thick slices, about 1-2 cm. This thickness will ensure even cooking and a pleasant texture.

2. Boiling the potatoes: Place the sliced potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Boil them for 8-10 minutes, or until a fork can easily pierce them, but do not let them soften too much. The goal is to keep them firm for later baking.

3. Preparing the mustard sauce: In a bowl, combine the mustard with the sunflower oil, mixing well to obtain a smooth sauce. Add the crushed garlic, salt, pepper, and dried parsley. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings to your liking. Here you can experiment with different types of mustard, each having its own character.

4. Coating the potatoes: After the potatoes are boiled, drain them and let them cool slightly. Then, toss them in the mustard sauce, ensuring that each slice is well coated. This will form a delicious crust during baking.

5. Baking: Preheat the oven to 200°C. Line a baking tray with parchment paper and arrange the potatoes in a single layer, without overlapping. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until they become golden and crispy. This is the perfect time to enjoy the enticing aroma that will fill your home.

6. Serving: Place the warm potatoes on a platter and serve them plain or with a dollop of sour cream alongside, for a creamy contrast. This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or as a side for grilled meat.

Useful tips:
- If you want an even richer flavor, you can add some fresh herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, during baking.
- Mustard-crusted potatoes are delicious even cold; thus, you can keep them for a quick snack or a picnic.
- If you like spicy dishes, add a bit of chili or paprika to the mustard sauce.

Nutritional benefits:

Potatoes are an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, vitamins (such as vitamin C and B6), and minerals (such as potassium). They provide energy and support digestive health. Mustard, on the other hand, is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, adding a health boost to your dish.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use sweet potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes are an excellent option and add a touch of sweetness to the dish. Cook them in the same way and enjoy a unique flavor.

2. How can I make this recipe vegan?
It is already vegan, but make sure to use mustard without animal-derived ingredients.

3. What other sauces can I use?
You can experiment with yogurt-based sauces, mayonnaise, or even spicy sauces, depending on your preferences.

A simple recipe with a memorable taste, mustard-crusted potatoes are perfect for any occasion, whether it's a family dinner or a picnic with friends. Try this recipe and let yourself be carried away by its unique flavor! Enjoy your meal!