Rustic potatoes

Rustic potatoes with smoked neck and cheese - a delicious recipe for unforgettable moments

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Who doesn't love a simple yet flavorful dish? Rustic potatoes with smoked neck and cheese are a perfect choice for a comforting dinner, filled with delicious aromas and textures. This recipe combines caramelized potatoes, the rich taste of smoked meat, and the creamy texture of cheese into a combination that will delight your taste buds.

A few words about the history of the recipe: The use of potatoes as a staple ingredient in dishes is an ancient tradition, and every culture has found unique ways to prepare them. This rustic potato recipe is inspired by home cooking traditions, where simple ingredients transform into delicious dishes through accessible cooking methods.

Ingredients:
- 1.5 kg potatoes
- 300 g smoked neck
- 3-4 eggs
- 300 g grated cheese (you can use telemea cheese or mozzarella)
- 100 g olives (green or black, according to preference)
- 6-7 cloves of garlic
- 1 glass of milk (about 250 ml)
- Salt, pepper, to taste
- Oil for greasing the tray

Step-by-step preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the potatoes
Start by washing the potatoes well. You can leave them with the skin for a more rustic taste, but if you prefer, you can peel them. Cut the potatoes into slices about 1 cm thick. This will ensure even boiling and baking in the oven.

Step 2: Boiling the potatoes
Place the sliced potatoes in a pot with cold water and a teaspoon of salt. Boil them for 5-7 minutes until they are slightly soft, but not fully cooked. This will reduce the baking time and prevent the potatoes from breaking down in the oven. After boiling, drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.

Step 3: Preparing the meat
Meanwhile, slice the smoked neck into thin slices, about 1 cm thick. The smoky aroma of the meat will add a delicious taste to your dish.

Step 4: Preparing the egg mixture
In a bowl, beat the eggs with a whisk until frothy. Add the grated cheese and mix well. Then, pour in the milk and add the crushed garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The mixture will become a creamy composition that will bind all the ingredients together.

Step 5: Assembling the dish
Grease a baking tray with a little oil to prevent sticking. Place a layer of boiled potatoes at the bottom of the tray. Make sure to distribute them evenly. Then, place the slices of smoked neck over the potatoes, covering the entire surface.

Step 6: Adding the egg mixture
Pour the egg and cheese mixture over the layer of potatoes and meat. Ensure everything is evenly covered.

Step 7: Decorating with olives
Decorate the surface with olives, which will not only add a savory taste but also provide an attractive visual aspect to the dish.

Step 8: Baking
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the tray in the oven and let it bake for 30 minutes, or until the surface is golden and crispy.

Step 9: Serving
When the rustic potatoes are ready, remove the tray from the oven and let it cool slightly. Cut generous portions and serve them warm, alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. You can accompany this dish with a glass of white wine or a refreshing lemonade for a perfect culinary experience.

Useful tips:
1. You can experiment with different types of cheese - goat cheese, feta, or even cheddar will add distinct flavors.
2. If you want to add a touch of freshness, you can sprinkle chopped dill or parsley on top of the dish before serving.
3. This recipe is very versatile - you can add vegetables such as peppers or mushrooms to diversify the dish.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen potatoes?
Although it is recommended to use fresh potatoes for the best texture, in case of emergency, you can use frozen potatoes. Just make sure to boil them a little before baking.

2. What else can I add?
You can try adding spices like paprika, thyme, or rosemary to enhance the flavor.

Nutritional benefits:
These rustic potatoes are a good source of complex carbohydrates, which will provide you with energy for the entire day. The smoked neck offers essential proteins, while the cheese adds calcium and vitamins A and B. Garlic not only enhances the flavor but also has antioxidant properties.

Calories:
A serving of rustic potatoes with smoked neck and cheese contains about 450-500 calories, depending on the ingredients used. It is a hearty dish that can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

This rustic potato recipe will surely become a family favorite. It is simple, quick, and extremely satisfying. Try it and let me know how it turned out! Enjoy your meal!