Potato dish with olives

Potato and Olive Dish – A Comforting Delight

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 35-40 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

The potato and olive dish is a simple and flavorful recipe, perfect for a comforting lunch. This delicious stew combines textures and flavors, creating a nutritious dish full of taste. The origins of this recipe are closely linked to simple culinary traditions that emphasize seasonal ingredients and natural flavor combinations. Let’s embark on this recipe that will delight your taste buds!

Ingredients:
- 1 medium onion
- 5 potatoes (about 800 g)
- 50 g green or black olives, according to preference
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 bay leaf
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons tomato juice (preferably freshly squeezed or from a quality can)
- 1 bunch of fresh dill (or parsley, if preferred)
- Water (about 400 ml)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by peeling the onion, then wash and finely chop it. If desired, you can also slice it into rings, depending on personal preference. The potatoes should be peeled, washed well, and cut into evenly sized cubes for even cooking.

2. Sautéing the onion
Place a pot over medium heat and add 200 ml of water. Once the water starts to boil, add the chopped onion. Let the onion sauté for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent and soft. This will add a rich flavor to the dish.

3. Adding the potatoes
Once the onion is ready, add the potato cubes to the pot. Pour in another 200 ml of water to cover the potatoes. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, until the potatoes become tender. This step is essential, as the potatoes will absorb the flavors of the onion broth and become a delicious base for the dish.

4. Adding the spices
After the potatoes are almost cooked, add the olive oil, tomato juice, and bay leaf. These ingredients will enhance the flavor of the dish. Let everything simmer on low heat for 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

5. Boiling the olives
Meanwhile, boil the olives in a separate pot for 2-3 minutes to soften them and enhance their flavor. This step is crucial, especially if you are using canned olives that may be salty.

6. Finalizing the dish
After the potatoes have cooked and the sauce has thickened, add the olives, salt, and basil. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes, during which the flavors will blend perfectly. Finally, turn off the heat and add the chopped dill (or parsley, if preferred), stirring gently.

7. Serving
The potato and olive dish is delicious served warm, alongside a fresh green salad or pickles, which add a pleasant contrast of textures and flavors. You can also serve it with a slice of crusty bread, which will soak up the delicious sauce.

Tips and tricks:
- Preparation variation: If you want to add extra flavor, you can also add a few chopped garlic cloves during the sautéing of the onion.
- Enriching the dish: Add other vegetables, such as carrots or bell peppers, for added color and nutrients.
- For a touch of acidity: Balsamic vinegar or lemon juice added at the end can balance the flavors and provide a more complex taste.
- Pairing with other recipes: This dish pairs perfectly with crumbled feta cheese on top or grilled chicken.

Nutritional benefits:
This potato and olive dish is rich in complex carbohydrates from potatoes, providing long-lasting energy. Olives add healthy fats and antioxidants, while dill and basil bring essential vitamins and minerals.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use black olives? Yes, black olives will provide a more intense flavor, so choose according to personal preference.
- Can this dish be stored? Yes, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and the taste gets even better the next day.
- Is this a fasting recipe? Yes, it is a perfect dish for fasting, considering its simple and nutritious ingredients.

Enjoy this potato and olive dish recipe, which combines tradition with a delicious and comforting taste. It is an ideal choice for cool days or a family lunch. Enjoy your meal!