Potatoes, mushrooms with thyme, garlic, and wine

Potatoes and Mushrooms with Thyme, Garlic, and Wine - A Symphony of Flavors

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 50 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Number of Servings: 4

A Brief Story About the Recipe

Potatoes and mushrooms are two versatile ingredients that have brought joy to kitchens around the world over time. This simple yet refined recipe combines the natural flavors of these vegetables with fresh thyme, garlic, and a splash of white wine, transforming them into a delicious dish, perfect as a side or even as a main course. It’s an excellent choice for a relaxing family dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients

- 5-6 medium potatoes (approximately 800 g)
- 5-6 mushrooms (preferably champignon or forest mushrooms, about 250 g)
- 1-2 tablespoons of dried thyme
- 5-6 cloves of garlic
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 glass of semi-dry white wine (approximately 150 ml)

Ingredient Details

- Potatoes: Choose medium-sized potatoes that cook evenly. Red or yellow potatoes are ideal due to their creamy texture.
- Mushrooms: Champignon mushrooms are accessible and have a delicate taste, but feel free to experiment with forest mushrooms, which will add a rustic note and a more intense flavor.
- Thyme: This aromatic herb is appreciated for its distinct flavor and beneficial properties for digestion.
- Garlic: Besides its unmistakable aroma, garlic is also known for its antioxidant properties.
- White wine: Choose a quality semi-dry wine that will add complexity to the flavor. Avoid overly sweet wines, as they can alter the dish's taste.

Recipe Preparation

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. This will ensure even baking for the potatoes and mushrooms.

2. Prepare the ingredients: Rinse the potatoes under cold running water, then slice them thinly, about 0.5 cm thick. This will allow for even baking. Clean the mushrooms and slice them, ensuring they are free from any impurities.

3. Assemble the dish: Line a baking tray with parchment paper. Arrange the slices of potatoes and mushrooms in the tray, alternating them for a pleasing presentation.

4. Season the vegetables: Sprinkle dried thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. Drizzle olive oil over the vegetables, ensuring all slices are well coated. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy texture and rich flavor.

5. Initial baking: Place the tray in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This time will allow the potatoes to become soft and begin to brown.

6. Add the wine and garlic: After 30 minutes, remove the tray from the oven. In a small bowl, mash the garlic cloves and mix them with the white wine. Drizzle the mixture over the vegetables in the tray, ensuring the garlic is evenly distributed.

7. Finish the dish: Put the tray back in the oven and bake for another 20 minutes, or until the potatoes and mushrooms are golden and tender, and the wine has evaporated, leaving an intense aroma.

Serving the Dish

This delicious combination of potatoes and mushrooms can be served warm as a side for a juicy steak or enjoyed as a vegetarian main course. A personal recommendation would be to accompany it with a fresh green salad and a garlic yogurt sauce to balance the rich flavors.

Possible Variations

To add a touch of originality, you can try replacing the white wine with a lighter red wine or adding feta cheese or grated parmesan on top during the last 10 minutes of baking. Additionally, adding hot peppers or roasted bell peppers will intensify the dish's flavors.

Nutritional Benefits

This recipe is not only delicious but also healthy. Potatoes are an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, essential for energy, while mushrooms are rich in antioxidants and B vitamins. Garlic, besides its flavor, contributes to strengthening the immune system.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use another type of wine?
Yes, you can use any semi-dry white wine, but make sure it is a quality wine, as its taste will reflect in the dish.

- What can I do to get crispier potatoes?
Ensure that the olive oil is evenly distributed and that you don't overcrowd the potatoes and mushrooms in the tray. Good air circulation in the oven is essential.

- Can I add other vegetables to the recipe?
Absolutely! Zucchini, carrots, or even squash can be added to diversify the flavor and enrich the dish.

Calories and Servings

This recipe offers approximately 250 calories per serving, depending on the amount of olive oil used. It is an excellent choice for those looking for a healthy meal that is full of flavor.

In conclusion, potatoes and mushrooms with thyme, garlic, and wine make a simple yet characterful recipe, perfect for any occasion. Experiment with different variations and enjoy the rich and comforting flavors this dish brings. Bon appétit!