Gratinated potatoes

The delicious food we will prepare today is a classic recipe for gratin potatoes, a perfect choice for evenings when we crave something comforting and full of flavor. This dish is ideal to be served as a main course or a side dish, and if you use beautiful cookware, it will look wonderful on the table. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40-50 minutes
Total time: 60-70 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients
- 5 medium new potatoes (700-800 grams)
- 400 ml cooking cream (make sure not to use sour cream)
- 2 tablespoons potato seasoning mix (you can use Delikat or a customized blend)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 100 g cream cheese
- 300-350 g cheese (feta, telemea, cheese, your choice)
- 50 g butter

A bit of history
Gratin potatoes have their roots in gastronomy, being popular in various cultures as a delicious way to prepare potatoes, a staple ingredient. This simple yet versatile recipe combines textures and flavors, bringing to the table a comforting dish, perfect for sharing with loved ones.

Step by step

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing the potatoes well with an abrasive sponge to remove dirt. Since they are new potatoes, there is no need to peel them with a knife; a careful wash will suffice. After cleaning, cut them in half, then slice them thinly using a food processor. This will ensure even baking and a pleasant texture.

2. Preparing the cookware
Choose the cookware you want to use. You can opt for individual dishes or a larger one. A colorful dish can add a touch of cheer to the table, but make sure it is heat-resistant. Greasing the dishes with a little butter will prevent the potatoes from sticking and will add extra flavor.

3. Mixing the cream with the cream cheese
In a bowl, combine the cooking cream with the cream cheese. This mixture will add creaminess and a rich taste to the dish. Make sure the ingredients are well integrated.

4. Layering the ingredients in the dishes
Start layering a layer of sliced potatoes in each dish. Sprinkle a bit of the potato seasoning mix, followed by 2-3 tablespoons of the cream with cream cheese. Add a little grated cheese and continue alternating layers of potatoes, seasoning, cream, and cheese until you finish the ingredients. The last layer should be made of cheese to achieve a golden and delicious crust.

5. Preparing for baking
Add a small cube of butter on top of the dish. This will help form a crispy crust. Place the dishes in the cold oven and set the temperature to 160 degrees Celsius. Bake for 40-50 minutes. If you are concerned about the colored dishes, you can cover them with a lid or aluminum foil to prevent cracking.

6. Achieving the perfect crust
In the last 10 minutes of baking, remove the lid or aluminum foil to allow the cheese to brown and develop a golden, appetizing crust.

Serving and suggestions
This dish is served hot, and I prefer to enjoy it simply, without meat or salad. However, you can accompany the dish with a fresh green salad or a serving of grilled vegetables to add a contrast of textures. Also, a bottle of dry white wine pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the cheese.

Useful tips
- Vary the cheeses: You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or cheddar, to add new flavors.
- Seasonings: If you want a spicier note, add chili flakes to the seasoning mix. Also, herbs like rosemary or thyme can offer an unusual taste.
- Very important: Make sure the cream is meant for cooking, not sour, to achieve the best texture.
- Nutritional values: This recipe provides a serving full of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats from cheese and cream, making it ideal for a comforting meal.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I substitute the cream?
Yes, you can use Greek yogurt or plant-based cream for a lighter version.

2. How long can I keep the leftovers?
The dish keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispy texture.

3. Can I add meat to the recipe?
Sure! You can add diced ham or fried bacon between the layers of potatoes for extra flavor.

I wish you good luck in cooking and enjoy every bite of these gratin potatoes! Bon appétit!

 Ingredients: 5 small new potatoes (700-800 grams) 400 ml cooking cream (not fermented) 2 tablespoons potato spice mix Delikat 1 teaspoon salt 100 g cream cheese 300-350 g cheese (feta, telemea, cheese) 50 g butter

 Tags:  potatoes au gratin potatoes baked potatoes potato recipes