If you’re looking for a dish that combines hearty ingredients with rich flavors, this Hearty Potato, Meat, and Vegetable Cake is the perfect choice. This savory cake layers potatoes, minced meat, mushrooms, and cheese into a delightful creation that is as satisfying as it is delicious. Paired with a fresh lettuce and tomato salad dressed with mustard, it’s a complete meal that will impress at family dinners or gatherings. Let’s dive into this step-by-step recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a comforting masterpiece.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- Olive Oil: For greasing and sautéing
- Potatoes: 3 large, thinly sliced
- Salt: To taste
- Black Pepper: To taste
- Minced Meat: 500g (1lb 2oz)
- Fresh Parsley: Finely chopped
- Onion: 1, finely chopped
- Mushrooms: 150g (5.3oz), diced
- Cheese: 100g, grated
- Eggs: 5
- Salt (for filling): 1 teaspoon
- Black Pepper (for filling): 2/3 teaspoon
For the Salad:
- Lettuce: Chopped
- Tomato: Diced
- Fresh Parsley: Finely chopped
- Mustard: To taste
Steps to Make It:
Step 1: Prepare the Potato Base
- Slice the Potatoes:
- Peel and slice the potatoes thinly, preferably with a mandoline slicer for even thickness.
- Layer the Potatoes:
- Grease a round baking dish or springform pan with olive oil.
- Arrange the potato slices to form the base and sides of the dish. Season with salt and black pepper.
Step 2: Cook the Filling
- Sauté the Meat:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced meat and cook until browned.
- Add Vegetables:
- Stir in the chopped onion and mushrooms. Cook until softened.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and parsley. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 3: Assemble the Cake
- Fill the Cake:
- Spread the meat and vegetable mixture over the potato base.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture:
- In a bowl, whisk the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour over the meat mixture to bind the layers.
- Add the Cheese:
- Sprinkle grated cheese evenly over the top.
Step 4: Bake
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Bake the Cake:
- Place the assembled cake in the oven and bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
- Cool Slightly:
- Allow the cake to rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Step 5: Make the Salad
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, toss together chopped lettuce, diced tomato, and parsley.
- Dress the Salad:
- Add a drizzle of mustard and olive oil. Mix well.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Calcium: 15% DV
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the minced meat?
Yes! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat alternatives for a variation.
2. Can I add other vegetables to the filling?
Absolutely. Bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini would make excellent additions.
3. What type of cheese works best?
Cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda are great options for a melty topping.
4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the cake a day in advance and bake it when needed.
Tips for Perfect Potato Cake
- Slice Potatoes Evenly: Thin, uniform slices ensure even cooking.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the seasoning; potatoes absorb flavors well.
- Let It Rest: Allow the cake to cool slightly before slicing to maintain its shape.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley enhances the flavor and adds a pop of color.
- Customize: Add spices like paprika or thyme for extra depth.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration:
- Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes for the best texture.
- Freezing:
- Freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and foil.
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as desired.
- Salad Storage:
- Store undressed salad in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Add mustard and olive oil just before serving.
Conclusion
This Hearty Potato, Meat, and Vegetable Cake is a true comfort food that brings together rich, savory layers of potatoes, flavorful minced meat, and perfectly seasoned vegetables. Topped with melted cheese and paired with a refreshing lettuce and tomato salad, it’s a dish that satisfies all your cravings in one go. Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or a special occasion, this recipe is both impressive and easy to prepare.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can tweak the filling to include your favorite vegetables or use different herbs and spices to create a unique flavor profile. It’s also a great make-ahead meal that tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for busy schedules.
Whether you’re enjoying it as a main course or serving it as part of a larger spread, this savory potato cake is sure to become a household favorite. Give it a try today, and delight in the comforting flavors of this hearty and satisfying dish!