If you’re looking for a simple, delicious, and budget-friendly meal, this potato-based dish is perfect for you. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a hearty meal that’s easier to make than pizza. Follow this step-by-step guide to whip up a tasty potato bake that everyone will love.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Potato Bake:
- 3 large potatoes, grated
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- Olive oil (for frying)
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1 pepper, finely chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Chives, chopped
- 3 eggs
- Salt, to taste
- 300 ml milk
- 200 g wholemeal flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
For the Topping:
- 150 g cheese, grated
Step-by-Step Directions
Prepare the Vegetables
- Grate Potatoes: Peel and grate the 3 large potatoes into a large mixing bowl.
- Chop Onion: Finely chop 1 onion and add it to the grated potatoes.
- Grate Carrot: Peel and grate 1 carrot, then add it to the mixture.
- Chop Pepper: Finely chop 1 pepper and add it to the bowl.
Mix and Season
- Season: Add salt to taste and chopped chives to the vegetable mixture.
Prepare the Batter
- Whisk Eggs: In a separate bowl, whisk the 3 eggs with a pinch of salt.
- Add Milk: Pour 300 ml of milk into the egg mixture and whisk until well combined.
- Combine Flour and Baking Powder: In another bowl, mix 200 g of wholemeal flour with 2 teaspoons of baking powder.
- Combine All Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the egg and milk mixture, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Pour this batter over the grated vegetables and mix until everything is well combined.
Rest and Bake
- Knead and Rest: Knead the dough lightly until everything is evenly mixed. Let it rest for 15 minutes.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a baking dish with olive oil and pour the potato mixture into it, spreading it out evenly.
- Initial Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
Add Cheese and Final Bake
- Add Cheese: After 45 minutes, remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle 150 g of grated cheese over the top.
- Final Bake: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Serve
- Cool and Serve: Let the potato bake cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your simple and delicious potato dish!
Tips and Variations
- Vegetable Variations: You can add other vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms to the mix for added flavor and nutrition.
- Cheese Options: Use any type of cheese you prefer, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or a cheese blend.
- Spice It Up: Add some chili flakes or paprika to the batter for a bit of heat.
- Herb Enhancements: Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary can be added for extra flavor.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover potato bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the potato mixture and keep it in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking. Add the cheese topping just before the final bake.
What can I serve with this potato bake?
This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or a simple tomato sauce.
How do I prevent the potato bake from becoming too dry?
Ensure you have enough liquid in the batter (eggs and milk). If it seems too dry before baking, you can add a little more milk.
Can I freeze the potato bake?
Yes, you can freeze the baked potato dish. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.
Conclusion
This easy and delicious potato bake is a fantastic alternative to pizza and perfect for a quick meal. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you can create a comforting and satisfying dish that’s sure to be a hit. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delightful meal!