Potato pie
Potato pie – a traditional, simple, and flavorful recipe that brings together humble ingredients to create a comforting dish, perfect for any meal. This pie is an excellent choice as both an appetizer and a main course, and it is easy to transport for a picnic or a day out in nature. Let's begin our culinary journey!
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 8
Ingredients
For the filling:
- 1 5L pot of potatoes (about 1 kg)
- 8 large onions
- salt, to taste
- pepper, to taste
- sweet or hot paprika, to preference
- thyme (optional)
- oil for sautéing and greasing
For the dough:
- 1 kg of flour
- 80 g of fresh yeast
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons of salt
- about 600 ml of warm water
- 4 tablespoons of oil
Preparation
Step 1: Preparing the potatoes
We start by preparing the potatoes. Peel and wash the potatoes, then cut them into cubes. Place them in a large pot with boiling salted water. Boil the potatoes for 15-20 minutes until they are slightly soft but not fully cooked. Then, drain them and let them cool.
Helpful tips:
- Make sure not to overcook the potatoes, as they will be mashed later, and you don’t want to end up with a puree.
- If desired, you can add a pinch of thyme to the water to give the potatoes extra flavor.
Step 2: Preparing the filling
Meanwhile, chop the onions finely. In a skillet, add 3-4 tablespoons of oil and sauté the onions over medium heat, covering the skillet with a lid to speed up the process. Cook until the onions are soft and golden, about 10-15 minutes. Add salt, pepper, and paprika, mixing well.
Add the cooled potatoes, grate them using a large grater, and mix everything until the ingredients are well incorporated.
Personalized option:
- For a richer taste, add a few slices of fresh or pickled bell pepper to the filling.
Step 3: Preparing the dough
In a large bowl, dissolve the fresh yeast in warm water, adding a tablespoon of sugar to activate the yeast. Let it sit for 10 minutes until foam forms. In another bowl, mix the flour with the salt. Make a well in the flour and add the oil and the yeast mixture. Knead until you obtain an elastic and smooth dough.
Dough tips:
- If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
- Kneading is crucial! The more you knead, the fluffier the pie will become.
Step 4: Letting it rise
Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rise for about 30 minutes in a warm place, away from drafts. The dough should double in volume.
Step 5: Assembling the pie
Once the dough has risen, divide it into four equal parts. On a floured surface, roll out each part into a thin sheet. Preheat the oven to 180°C.
Grease two baking trays with oil. Place one sheet of dough in each tray, making sure to prick it with a fork to prevent puffing. Distribute half of the potato filling over the first sheet. Then, cover with the second sheet of dough, pricking it again with a fork. Repeat the process with the other two sheets and filling.
Step 6: Baking the pies
Brush the top surface with beaten egg for a golden and appetizing crust. Bake in the oven for 1 hour, making sure to rotate the trays halfway through for even baking.
Baking tips:
- Check the pies at 40 minutes. If they become too browned, cover them with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
Step 7: Serving
Once baked, remove the pies from the oven, let them cool slightly, then cut them into portions. Serve the pie warm or at room temperature, alongside a green salad or spinach for a fresh contrast.
Stories and variations
This potato pie is more than just a dish; it represents a culinary tradition passed down through generations. Each family has its own recipe, adapted to their tastes and preferences. You might want to experiment by adding salty cheese or dill to the filling, or even using sweet potatoes for a healthier version.
Calories and nutritional benefits
This pie is relatively high in carbohydrates, making it an excellent source of energy. A serving of potato pie has about 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of oil and filling used. Potatoes are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, contributing to a balanced diet.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use frozen potatoes for the filling?
- While it is possible, the taste will be different, and the texture may not be as good. It is recommended to use fresh potatoes.
2. How can I store the pie?
- Keep the pie in the fridge in an airtight container for 3-4 days. It can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
3. Can the pie be frozen?
- Yes, the pie can be frozen before baking. Wrap it well in aluminum foil, and you can keep it for up to 3 months.
This potato pie is a perfect choice for any occasion, from family dinners to picnics with friends. Start experimenting with the ingredients and add your personal touch that represents you, turning every meal into a celebration of flavors! Bon appétit!
Ingredients: 1 pot of 5l with potatoes 8 large onions salt pepper sweet/spicy paprika pepper thyme (optional) oil Dough: 1 kg of flour 80 g of fresh yeast 1 tablespoon of sugar 1-2 tablespoons of salt about 600 ml of warm water 4 tablespoons of oil
