Garlic mashed potatoes

Garlic Stewed Potatoes Recipe – a simple yet flavorful dish, perfect for a family meal or as a side to a main course. This stewed potato recipe is easy to prepare and will transform basic ingredients into something truly delicious.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 7-8 medium potatoes (for a creamy texture, choose new potatoes or potatoes for mashing)
- 1/2 large onion (preferably white or yellow onion for a sweeter taste)
- 3 cloves of garlic (for an intense flavor; if you prefer a milder taste, use 2)
- 4 tablespoons of olive oil or sunflower oil (olive oil adds extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon of sweet or spicy paprika (optional, but recommended for a more complex flavor)

Instructions:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling the onion. Chop it finely so it can sauté evenly and release its flavors. The potatoes should be peeled, washed well, and cut into cubes of about 2-3 cm. This will help them cook evenly. Peel and finely chop the garlic; for a more intense flavor, you can use a pinch of salt and a knife to turn it into a paste.

2. Heating the oil: In a deep pot, add the 4 tablespoons of oil and heat it over medium heat. Make sure the oil is well heated before adding the onion. This step is essential to achieve a golden, sweet sautéed onion.

3. Sautéing the onion: Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent and slightly golden. Adding salt at this point will help the onion release water and caramelize better.

4. Cooking the potatoes: Add the potato cubes to the pot and mix well to coat them with oil. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become slightly golden.

5. Seasoning: Once the potatoes start to brown, add the chopped garlic and paprika. Mix well to evenly distribute the spices. This step will add a deep flavor and savory taste to the dish.

6. Adding water: Pour enough water into the pot to cover the potatoes (about 250-300 ml). Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes until the potatoes become soft and absorb all the flavors.

7. Finishing the dish: After the potatoes are cooked, check the taste and adjust with salt and pepper to your liking. If you desire a creamier texture, you can lightly mash the potatoes with a fork.

Serving suggestion: Serve the garlic stewed potatoes alongside grilled meat or fish, or simply as a vegetarian main dish. A fresh salad of tomatoes and cucumbers will perfectly complement this dish.

Possible variations: Experiment by adding fresh herbs like parsley or dill, or even a bit of basil for a Mediterranean flavor. You can also add a splash of lemon juice to give it a tangy taste.

This dish is not only easy to prepare but also versatile, making it ideal for adapting to personal tastes. Enjoy the garlic stewed potatoes and savor their intense and comforting flavors!