There are countless recipes that claim to be easy and delicious, but this one really stands out. With just one potato, you can create a dish so tasty that all your neighbors will be asking for the recipe. This super simple potato and veggie bake combines the hearty texture of potatoes with the vibrant flavors of fresh vegetables, topped with melted cheese for an irresistible finish. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for a gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Plus, it’s versatile enough to accommodate your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand.
Ingredients
- 1 large potato
- 1 tablespoon potato starch
- 1 onion
- 1 carrot
- 1 bell pepper
- 3 small tomatoes
- A bunch of spring onions
- 1 egg
- 150 grams (5.3 oz) cheese
- 3 cloves garlic
- 2 slices ham (optional)
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Sunflower oil
Instructions
Prepare the Potato Base
- Grate the Potato: Grate 1 large potato and squeeze out the excess moisture.
- Mix with Starch and Salt: In a bowl, mix the grated potato with 1 tablespoon of potato starch and a pinch of salt.
- Grease the Molds: Grease a baking mold or individual molds with sunflower oil.
- Form the Base: Distribute the potato mixture evenly in the molds, pressing it down to form a base.
- Bake: Bake at 180°C (356°F) for 20 minutes or until the potato base is slightly golden.
Prepare the Veggies
- Chop the Onion: Finely chop 1 onion.
- Sauté the Onion: Heat some sunflower oil in a pan and sauté the onion until transparent.
- Add Carrot and Bell Pepper: Grate 1 carrot and chop 1 bell pepper. Add them to the pan with the onions and sauté for a few minutes.
- Add Garlic: Mince 3 cloves of garlic and add to the pan. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Chop Tomatoes and Spring Onions: Chop 3 small tomatoes and a bunch of spring onions. Set aside.
Assemble the Bake
- Prepare the Potato Base: Once the potato base is ready, remove it from the oven.
- Add Vegetables: Spread the sautéed vegetables over the potato base.
- Add Egg and Ham: Beat 1 egg and pour it over the vegetables. If using, cut 2 slices of ham into small pieces and add them on top.
- Top with Tomatoes and Spring Onions: Arrange the chopped tomatoes and spring onions over the mixture.
- Add Cheese: Grate 150 grams (5.3 oz) of cheese and sprinkle it on top.
Bake Again
- Bake: Return the assembled dish to the oven and bake at 180°C (356°F) for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Enjoy: Bon appétit!
Tips
- Ensure the potato base is well-cooked and slightly golden before adding the toppings to keep it crisp.
- Customize the vegetables based on your preferences or what’s in season.
- Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
Conclusion
This recipe is a testament to the magic of simple ingredients and straightforward preparation. With just one potato, some fresh vegetables, and a few pantry staples, you can create a dish that not only looks and tastes amazing but also garners admiration from everyone who tries it. The versatility of this potato and veggie bake means you can easily adapt it to include your favorite ingredients or whatever you have on hand, making it perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side dish, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. So go ahead, give it a try, and watch as your neighbors and friends marvel at your culinary skills. Enjoy the delicious flavors and the joy of sharing this wonderful dish with loved ones. Happy cooking!