Potato Delight

Potato Delight Recipe from Italy - New Potatoes, Parmesan, Fontina, and Provolone

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Potato Delight is a delicious and comforting dish that combines creamy mashed potatoes with a cheesy and savory filling. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion.

History

The origins of Potato Delight are not clear, but it is believed to have originated in Italy, where potatoes are a staple ingredient in many dishes. This recipe has been passed down through generations and has become a favorite in many households around the world.

Ingredients

2.5 lb (1.13 kg) new potatoes
3 tbsp melted butter
0.25 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 egg
1 egg white
0.13 tsp salt
0.13 tsp ground nutmeg
4 tbsp fine dry bread crumbs, divided
8 oz (227 g) fontina cheese, cut into chunks
0.25 cup freshly grated sharp provolone cheese
0.25 lb (113 g) prosciutto, cut into small pieces
2 tbsp butter, cut into small pieces

How to prepare

In a large saucepan, cook the potatoes in boiling water over medium-low heat until tender. Drain.
Allow the potatoes to cool slightly, then peel and cut them in half.
Mash the potatoes.
In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, melted butter, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, egg white, salt, and nutmeg. Mix until smooth.
Set the mixture aside.
Sprinkle half of the bread crumbs in a well-buttered 9-inch round baking dish.
Tilt the dish to coat it with the bread crumbs.
Spread about half of the potato mixture on the bottom and sides of the dish.
In a small bowl, combine the fontina, provolone, and prosciutto.
Sprinkle the cheese and prosciutto mixture over the potato mixture in the dish.
Cover with the remaining potato mixture and sprinkle with the remaining bread crumbs.
Dot the top with pieces of butter.
Bake in a preheated 350-degree oven for 35 minutes.
Let it stand for 5 minutes.
Invert the baking dish onto a serving plate, tapping gently to remove the dish.
Serve immediately.

Variations

Add cooked bacon or ham for a meatier version.
Use different types of cheese for a unique flavor profile.
Mix in herbs like rosemary or thyme for added freshness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the potatoes until they are tender but not mushy.

- Mixing the potato mixture until smooth will ensure a creamy texture.

- Buttering the baking dish and coating it with bread crumbs will help prevent sticking.

- Letting the dish stand for 5 minutes after baking will allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Potato Delight can be served as a main dish with a side salad or steamed vegetables.

Cooking Techniques

Boiling the potatoes until tender.

- Mashing the potatoes until smooth.

- Baking the dish in the oven until golden brown.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use regular potatoes instead of new potatoes.

- Substitute cheddar cheese for the fontina and provolone.

- Use pancetta instead of prosciutto.

Make Ahead Tips

Potato Delight can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Potato Delight on a decorative platter garnished with fresh herbs.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Potato Delight with a crisp white wine or a light beer.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Potato Delight in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Potato Delight contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Potato Delight contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Potato Delight contains approximately 20 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Potato Delight contains approximately 15 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Potato Delight is a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and calcium.

Alergens

Potato Delight contains dairy (cheese, butter, and egg) and wheat (bread crumbs).

Summary

Potato Delight is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Potato Delight is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its creamy mashed potatoes and cheesy filling, this dish is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Potato Delight. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret in her cozy little kitchen. Margaret was known for her delicious home-cooked meals, and that day she was busy preparing a special dish that caught my attention.

As I watched her work her magic in the kitchen, I couldn't help but ask her about the recipe she was using. Margaret smiled and told me that it was a family recipe that had been passed down through generations. She explained that Potato Delight was a simple yet hearty dish that was perfect for any occasion.

Intrigued by the sound of this comforting dish, I asked Margaret if she would be willing to share the recipe with me. She happily obliged and began to walk me through the steps of making Potato Delight. I watched closely as she peeled and diced the potatoes, sautéed onions and garlic, and added a special blend of herbs and spices.

As the aroma of the dish filled the air, I couldn't wait to give it a try. Margaret served me a generous portion of the Potato Delight, and with the first bite, I knew that this was a recipe worth treasuring.

Over the years, I have made Potato Delight countless times, each time bringing back fond memories of that summer day in Margaret's kitchen. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, who have all fallen in love with its simple yet comforting flavors.

As I reflect on how I learned to make Potato Delight, I realize that this recipe is not just about the ingredients or the cooking process. It is about the memories and the stories that come with it. It is about the bond that is created when we share a meal with loved ones, passing down traditions and creating new ones along the way.

I am grateful to Margaret for introducing me to this wonderful recipe, and to all the people who have shared their own recipes and stories with me over the years. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and I am constantly inspired by the flavors and traditions that have been passed down through generations.

So the next time you find yourself in the kitchen, preparing a meal for your loved ones, remember that it is not just about the food itself. It is about the memories, the stories, and the love that goes into each and every dish. And who knows, maybe one day you'll create a recipe that will be cherished for years to come, just like my beloved Potato Delight.