Ingredients:

For the Potatoes in Batter:

• 3 potatoes
• 3 eggs
• Salt, paprika, oregano (to taste)
• 100 grams of flour

For the Cabbage Salad:

• 600 grams of cabbage
• 2 boiled eggs
• A few pieces of ham (about 100 grams)
• 150 grams of canned peas
• Fresh dill (to taste)
• 4 tablespoons mayonnaise

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 20 grams of butter
• 20 grams of flour
• 200 ml milk
• 70 grams of cheese (slices or shredded)
• Salt, paprika, black pepper (to taste)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preparing the Potatoes in Batter:

• Step 1: Peel and Slice the Potatoes Begin by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into thick slices or wedges, depending on your preference.
• Step 2: Prepare the Batter In a bowl, crack the 3 eggs and whisk them with a pinch of salt, paprika, and oregano for seasoning. Gradually add the 100 grams of flour into the egg mixture, stirring until a smooth batter forms. The batter should be thick enough to coat the potato slices but still pourable.
• Step 3: Coat and Fry the Potatoes Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Dip each potato slice into the batter, making sure it’s well-coated, then carefully place it into the hot oil. Fry the potatoes until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pan and place on a paper towel to drain any excess oil.

2. Preparing the Cabbage Salad:

• Step 1: Shred the Cabbage Thinly slice the cabbage and place it in a large salad bowl.
• Step 2: Add the Eggs and Ham Slice the boiled eggs and ham into small pieces. Add them to the shredded cabbage.
• Step 3: Add the Peas and Dill Drain the canned peas and add them to the salad. Chop a handful of fresh dill and toss it in as well for added freshness.
• Step 4: Dress the Salad Add 4 tablespoons of mayonnaise to the salad and mix everything together until the ingredients are well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside while you prepare the cheese sauce.

3. Making the Cheese Sauce:

• Step 1: Prepare a Roux In a small saucepan, melt 20 grams of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add 20 grams of flour and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a smooth paste, or roux. This will help thicken the sauce.
• Step 2: Add the Milk Slowly pour in the 200 ml of milk while continuing to stir. Make sure to stir constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Let the mixture simmer gently for 3-5 minutes until it thickens.
• Step 3: Add the Cheese and Seasonings Add the 70 grams of cheese (either slices or shredded) to the thickened milk mixture. Stir until the cheese has completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season the sauce with a pinch of salt, paprika, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

4. Assembling the Dish:

• Step 1: Serve the Potatoes Place the crispy potatoes on a serving dish and drizzle some of the warm cheese sauce over them. You can also serve the cheese sauce on the side for dipping.
• Step 2: Serve the Cabbage Salad Transfer the cabbage salad to a bowl and serve alongside the potatoes.
• Step 3: Enjoy the Meal! This delicious combination of crispy potatoes, fresh salad, and rich cheese sauce is now ready to be enjoyed. Serve the meal warm and enjoy the different textures and flavors that complement each other beautifully.

Cooking Tips:

• For Extra Crispiness: If you want the potatoes even crispier, fry them twice. Fry the potato slices once until light golden, remove them from the oil, let them rest, and then fry them again until fully crispy.
• Adjusting Cheese Sauce Consistency: If the cheese sauce is too thick, simply add a bit more milk to thin it out. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for a few extra minutes to thicken.
• Salad Variations: Feel free to add other ingredients like cucumber, bell peppers, or olives to the cabbage salad for extra flavor and texture.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate):

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Protein: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sodium: 600mg

FAQs:

1. Can I make the cheese sauce ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can make the cheese sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to use, gently reheat it in a saucepan, stirring constantly to prevent it from burning.
2. Can I use other vegetables for the salad?
   • Absolutely! This salad is very versatile. You can add other veggies like cucumbers, bell peppers, or radishes for more variety.
3. What can I use instead of mayonnaise in the salad?
   • If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a mixture of yogurt and lemon juice for a tangy flavor.
4. Can I bake the potatoes instead of frying them?
   • Yes, if you prefer a healthier version, you can bake the potatoes at 200°C (400°F) for 25-30 minutes or until crispy, flipping halfway through the baking time.

Conclusion: This combination of crispy, battered potatoes, a refreshing cabbage salad, and a creamy cheese sauce is a crowd-pleaser. It strikes the perfect balance between crunchy, fresh, and creamy textures, making it an ideal dish for any occasion. The steps are simple and straightforward, and the dish can be customized with additional seasonings and ingredients to suit your preferences. Whether you’re serving it as a family dinner or a special treat, this meal is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!