Gratinated potatoes with ham
Gratinated Potatoes with Ham - A Delicious Treat for Any Occasion
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6
Recipe Introduction
Gratinated potatoes with ham are a perfect choice for a family meal or a dinner with friends. This recipe combines creamy textures and savory flavors, making every bite an unforgettable experience. The origins of this recipe are lost in time, but the idea of combining potatoes with various ingredients has been appreciated for generations due to its versatility and quick preparation.
Ingredients
- 900 g potatoes
- 250 g pressed ham
- 150 g onion
- 200 g pickles
- 50 g grated cheese (cheddar)
- 50 g tomato paste
- 50 g flour
- 125 g sour cream
- 30 g mustard
- 30 g butter
- 250 ml milk
- 50-100 ml oil
- Salt, pepper, seasoning (Maggi chicken cube) to taste
Preparation - Step by Step
1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing and peeling the potatoes. It is essential to choose quality potatoes that are firm and blemish-free. After peeling, cut them into cubes of about 2 cm for even cooking.
2. Boiling the potatoes: Place the cut potatoes in a pot of salted water. Boil them for 10-12 minutes until they become slightly soft but not fully cooked, to prevent them from falling apart during baking.
3. Preparing the onion: Peel the onion, wash it, and chop it finely. Blanch the onion in boiling water for a few minutes, then drain it. This step helps remove the strong flavor of the onion.
4. The pickles: Peel the pickles and cut them into small cubes. They will add a note of freshness and acidity to the dish, balancing the rich flavor of the potatoes and ham.
5. Preparing the sauce: In a pan, add 50-100 ml of oil and 50 ml of water. When the oil is hot, add the onion and let it sweat until it becomes transparent. Mix the flour with a little milk to avoid lumps, then add the flour and milk mixture to the pan. Continue to stir for 2-3 minutes.
6. Adding the ingredients: Once the sauce is ready, remove the pan from the heat and add the diluted tomato paste with 100 ml of water, mustard, and the Maggi cube (optional). Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 5 minutes, stirring constantly.
7. Combining the ingredients: Once the sauce is ready, take the pan off the heat and add the pickles, ham cubes, sour cream, the boiled potatoes (drained), salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
8. Baking the dish: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a baking dish with a little oil and pour the potato and ham mixture into it. Smooth the surface well, then sprinkle the grated cheese on top. Add a few pieces of butter for a richer taste and texture.
9. Cooking in the oven: Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the surface becomes golden and crispy.
Serving Suggestions
Gratinated potatoes with ham can be served warm, alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. You can also add a yogurt or sour cream sauce to the table for extra flavor. This dish pairs wonderfully with a glass of dry white wine or a refreshing blonde beer.
Tips and Useful Advice
- Ingredient variations: You can experiment with different types of cheese or add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to diversify the recipe.
- Storing the dish: If you have leftover gratinated potatoes, you can store them in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or oven to warm them up.
- Nutritional benefits: This dish is rich in carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats, providing you with a hearty and filling meal. Potatoes are a good source of fiber and vitamins, while the ham adds a protein boost.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes will add a different flavor and a sweeter taste to the dish.
2. Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can replace the ham with tofu or cooked vegetables to create a vegetarian version.
3. What is the best type of cheese for gratin?
Cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda are excellent due to their ability to melt beautifully and form a golden crust.
Conclusion
Gratinated potatoes with ham are a simple yet flavorful recipe that can bring joy to any meal. With each step, we encourage you to enjoy the cooking process and add a touch of creativity to your kitchen. So, prepare your ingredients and savor this delicacy, perfect for enjoying with loved ones!
Ingredients: 150 g onion, 200 g pickled cucumbers, 50 g cheese, 250 g pressed ham, 900 g potatoes, 50 g tomato paste, 50 g flour, 125 g sour cream, 30 g mustard, 30 g butter, 250 ml milk, 50-100 ml oil, salt, pepper, seasoning (Maggi chicken cube) to taste
