Natural potatoes

Recipe for Natural Potatoes with Fresh Parsley

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 40-45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Looking for a simple yet delicious side dish? Natural potatoes are the perfect choice! This recipe for boiled potatoes served with fresh parsley is not only easy to prepare but also adds a touch of freshness to any meal. Plus, potatoes are an excellent source of carbohydrates and vitamins, and the combination with parsley adds extra nutrients and flavor.

The history of the potato is fascinating; these root vegetables have been cultivated for thousands of years and have become a staple food worldwide. Originating from mountainous regions, potatoes spread rapidly due to their versatility. From mashed potatoes to gratins, potatoes are great friends in the kitchen. Today, we will focus on the simple yet extremely tasty version of natural potatoes.

Ingredients:
- 1 kg of potatoes (choose medium-sized potatoes with smooth skin)
- 1 tablespoon of salt (for water)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley (finely chopped)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the potatoes: Start by washing the potatoes well under a stream of cold water. It is essential to remove any impurities or dirt from the skin since we will boil the potatoes with the skin on. Make sure to choose those without spots or bruises for a consistent dish.

2. Boiling the potatoes: Fill a large pot with water and add a tablespoon of salt. Place the potatoes in the pot, ensuring they are completely covered with water. Bringing the water to a boil may take a few minutes, so be patient! Once the water is boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let the potatoes boil for 25-30 minutes. Test them with a fork; if it goes in easily, the potatoes are ready. Be careful not to overboil them, as they will become mushy and fall apart.

3. Peeling and cutting: Once boiled, remove the potatoes from the water and let them cool slightly to avoid burns. Then, carefully peel them using a knife or simply with your hands if they are cool enough. Cut them into cubes of about 2-3 cm so that they cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the spices.

4. Seasoning and serving: Place the potato cubes in a large bowl, season them with salt to taste, and sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top. Gently mix to distribute the seasonings evenly. Serve them warm alongside a juicy steak or as a side dish for baked fish.

Practical tips:
- You can experiment with spices: add a little freshly ground pepper, crushed garlic, or even a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor.
- If you want an even more interesting taste, you can add a few slices of green onion or fresh dill along with the parsley.
- Natural potatoes pair excellently with a fresh green salad or a tomato and onion salad for a balanced meal.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use peeled potatoes? Although the recipe is based on boiled potatoes with skin to retain nutrients, you can choose to peel them before boiling, but you will need to adjust the cooking time.
- Can I prepare this recipe in advance? Yes, boiled potatoes can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on a skillet, adding a drizzle of oil to make them crispy.

Nutritional benefits:
Potatoes are an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, providing long-lasting energy. They also contain vitamins C and B6, potassium, and fiber. Parsley, in addition to adding a note of freshness, is rich in antioxidants and vitamins, contributing to a healthy diet.

Possible variations:
- Potatoes with butter and herbs: Add a tablespoon of melted butter and herbs like rosemary or thyme for a deeper flavor.
- Cheese potatoes: After adding parsley, you can sprinkle grated cheese (feta, parmesan, or cheddar) for a richer dish.

This simple recipe for natural potatoes with fresh parsley is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a delicious and healthy dish. I encourage you to play with flavors and customize the recipe to suit your tastes. Whether you serve them as a side dish or as a main course alongside a fresh salad, natural potatoes will always bring a smile to your face!