Lithuanian Potato Pudding I

Lithuanian Potato Pudding I Recipe - Vegetarian Dish from Lithuania

Region / culture: Lithuania | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 55 minutes | Servings: 8 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Lithuanian Potato Pudding I is a traditional dish that is hearty and comforting. Made with grated potatoes, onions, bacon, eggs, and evaporated milk, this dish is perfect for a cozy family meal or a special occasion.

History

Potato pudding has been a staple in Lithuanian cuisine for generations. It is a dish that is often served during holidays and celebrations, as well as for everyday meals. The combination of potatoes, bacon, and eggs creates a rich and flavorful dish that is loved by many.

Ingredients

6 oz (170 g) of thick cut bacon, cut into 0.13 inch pieces
6 lb (2.72 kg) of russet potatoes, peeled and finely grated
1 medium yellow onion, peeled and finely grated
1 (5 oz (142 g)) can of evaporated milk
5 eggs, beaten
2 tsp of salt
freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 tbsp of melted butter

How to prepare

Fry the bacon until it becomes crispy and set it aside.
Pass the grated potato and onion through a coarse meat grinder.
Combine the bacon and all the remaining ingredients, except for the butter.
Thoroughly mix the ingredients and pour them into a buttered glass baking dish measuring 13x8x2 inches.
Bake the mixture at 425°F (218°C) for 0.5 hour, then reduce the temperature to 375°F (191°C) and continue baking for 25 minutes or longer.
For optimal results, ensure that the pudding is at least 2 inches deep in the baking dish.

Variations

Add grated cheese to the pudding for a cheesy twist.
Mix in cooked vegetables like peas or carrots for added flavor and nutrition.
Use different types of meat like ham or sausage instead of bacon for a different taste.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to finely grate the potatoes and onions to ensure a smooth texture in the pudding.

- Be sure to cook the bacon until it is crispy to add a delicious crunch to the dish.

- Mixing all the ingredients thoroughly will help ensure that the flavors are well distributed throughout the pudding.

- Baking the pudding at a high temperature initially will help create a crispy crust on the top.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the potato pudding hot with a dollop of sour cream on top for a creamy finish. Pair it with a side salad or some pickles for a balanced meal.

Cooking Techniques

Grate the potatoes and onions finely for a smooth texture.

- Mix the ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.

- Bake the pudding at a high temperature initially for a crispy top.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon for a healthier option.

- Substitute almond milk for evaporated milk for a dairy-free version.

- Use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes for a sweeter twist.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the potato pudding ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Simply cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the potato pudding in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the potato pudding with a crisp green salad or some pickled vegetables for a refreshing contrast. A glass of white wine or a cold beer would also complement the flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover potato pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the pudding in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

- 320 calories per serving

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 38g

- Dietary Fiber: 3g

- Sugars: 4g

Fats

- Total Fat: 15g

- Saturated Fat: 6g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 12g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 8%

- Vitamin C: 20%

- Calcium: 10%

- Iron: 15%

Alergens

Contains eggs and dairy

Summary

Lithuanian Potato Pudding I is a rich and satisfying dish that is high in carbohydrates and fats. It is a great source of protein and contains essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Lithuanian Potato Pudding I is a classic dish that is rich, flavorful, and satisfying. With a combination of grated potatoes, onions, bacon, and eggs, this dish is perfect for a cozy family meal or a special occasion. Serve it hot with a dollop of sour cream and enjoy the delicious flavors of this traditional Lithuanian dish.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Lithuanian Potato Pudding. It was a chilly autumn day, the kind that makes you crave warm, comforting dishes that fill your home with delicious aromas. I was at a farmer's market, browsing through the stalls of fresh produce when I spotted an elderly woman selling an assortment of Lithuanian dishes. Intrigued by the flavors and ingredients I had never tried before, I struck up a conversation with her.

She was a kind, grandmotherly figure with a twinkle in her eye and a warm smile that instantly put me at ease. As we chatted, she mentioned that she had immigrated to the United States from Lithuania many years ago and had brought with her a treasure trove of family recipes. I couldn't resist asking her if she would be willing to share one of those recipes with me.

Her face lit up with delight as she reached into her bag and pulled out a tattered old recipe card. She handed it to me with a nod, saying that this particular dish was a favorite among her family and friends back in Lithuania. It was a recipe for Lithuanian Potato Pudding, a hearty and satisfying dish made with grated potatoes, onions, eggs, and a touch of sour cream.

I thanked her profusely and promised to give the recipe a try. As I walked back to my car, I couldn't wait to get home and start cooking. The thought of recreating a traditional Lithuanian dish in my own kitchen filled me with excitement and anticipation.

When I got home, I gathered all the necessary ingredients and got to work. I peeled and grated the potatoes, chopped the onions, and whisked together the eggs and sour cream. The kitchen was filled with the earthy aroma of potatoes and the savory scent of onions as I mixed everything together in a large bowl.

As I poured the mixture into a baking dish and popped it into the oven, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment. The recipe was simple yet full of flavor, a true representation of the hearty and comforting dishes that are a hallmark of Lithuanian cuisine.

When the potato pudding emerged from the oven, golden brown and fragrant, I knew I had hit the jackpot. The dish was a hit with my family, who couldn't get enough of the creamy texture and rich flavor. They marveled at how a few simple ingredients could come together to create such a delicious and satisfying dish.

From that day on, Lithuanian Potato Pudding became a staple in our household. Whenever we craved a taste of comfort and tradition, I would whip up a batch of this savory pudding and watch as my family devoured every last bite. The recipe became a cherished part of our culinary repertoire, a reminder of the kind and generous woman who had shared it with me.

As the years passed, I continued to experiment with the recipe, adding my own twists and variations to make it even more delicious. But no matter how many times I made it, the memory of that kind Lithuanian woman at the farmer's market never faded. She had introduced me to a world of flavors and traditions that I had never experienced before, and for that, I would be forever grateful.

Now, as I look back on that fateful day at the farmer's market, I can't help but smile at the serendipity of it all. A chance encounter with a stranger had led me to discover a recipe that would become a beloved family favorite, a link to a distant land and a cherished culinary tradition. And for that, I will always be grateful.