Potatoes Appetizers

Tanzanian Potatoes Appetizers Recipe with Olive Oil and Chives

Region / culture: Tanzania | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Potato appetizers are a popular choice for parties and gatherings, as they are easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. These potato balls are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them a delicious and satisfying snack.

History

Potato appetizers have been enjoyed for centuries, with variations found in many different cultures around the world. This particular recipe for potato balls with paprika and wheat germ adds a unique twist to the classic dish, giving it a flavorful and crunchy coating.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) potatoes
2 tbsp olive oil
salt and pepper
0.5 cup chives or green onions, finely chopped
0.5 tsp paprika
0.5 cup wheat germ

How to prepare

Peel and chop the potatoes.
Place the potatoes in a pot and cover them with water.
Boil the potatoes until they are soft.
Mash the cooked potatoes with oil, then add the seasonings.
Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C).
Shape the potato mixture into 1-inch balls.
In a dish, mix together the paprika and wheat germ.
Roll the potato balls in the paprika and wheat germ mixture until they are coated.
Place the coated potato balls on an oiled baking sheet.
Bake the potato balls at 375°F (191°C) for about 20 minutes.
Let the potato balls stand on folded paper towels before serving them with toothpicks.

Variations

You can customize this recipe by adding different seasonings or herbs to the potato mixture, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or dried herbs like thyme or rosemary. You can also experiment with different coatings, such as breadcrumbs or crushed nuts.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure that the potato balls are crispy and golden brown, make sure to coat them evenly with the paprika and wheat germ mixture before baking. You can also add other seasonings or herbs to the potato mixture for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These potato balls can be served with a dipping sauce of your choice, such as sour cream, salsa, or a spicy aioli. They also pair well with a side salad or vegetable platter.

Cooking Techniques

Boiling the potatoes before mashing them ensures that they are soft and easy to work with. Baking the coated potato balls at a high temperature gives them a crispy and golden brown exterior.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have wheat germ on hand, you can substitute breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for the coating. You can also use vegetable oil or melted butter instead of olive oil.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the potato mixture and shape the balls ahead of time, then refrigerate them until you are ready to bake. This makes them a convenient option for entertaining.

Presentation Ideas

Serve these potato balls on a platter with toothpicks for easy serving. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for a decorative touch.

Pairing Recommendations

These potato appetizers pair well with a variety of beverages, such as beer, wine, or cocktails. They also go well with other finger foods like cheese platters or charcuterie boards.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover potato balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (177°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of these potato balls contains approximately 150 calories, making them a satisfying and guilt-free snack option.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of these potato appetizers contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates, making them a filling and satisfying snack.

Fats

With only 2 tablespoons of olive oil used in the recipe, these potato balls are a relatively low-fat appetizer option.

Proteins

Each serving of these potato balls contains approximately 3 grams of protein, making them a good source of this essential nutrient.

Vitamins and minerals

Potatoes are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and B vitamins, making these appetizers a nutritious choice for your next party.

Alergens

This recipe contains wheat germ, which may be a potential allergen for some individuals. Be sure to check for any allergies before serving.

Summary

Overall, these potato appetizers are a delicious and nutritious choice for your next gathering, providing a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

These potato appetizers are a delicious and satisfying snack option for your next party or gathering. With a crispy coating of paprika and wheat germ, they are sure to be a hit with your guests. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Potatoes Appetizers. It was a warm summer day, and I had just finished helping my mother in the garden. As I walked into the kitchen to wash up, I saw her standing at the stove, a pot of potatoes bubbling away on the burner.

"Whatcha making, Ma?" I asked, curious as always about what delicious dish she was concocting.

"Why, I'm making some potatoes appetizers, dear," she replied with a smile. "Would you like to help me?"

I eagerly nodded, always eager to learn new recipes from my mother. As she guided me through the steps of peeling, chopping, and boiling the potatoes, I couldn't help but marvel at her skill and expertise in the kitchen. She had a way of making even the simplest of dishes taste like a gourmet meal.

After the potatoes were cooked and mashed, my mother showed me how to season them with a blend of herbs and spices that she had learned from her own mother. The aroma that filled the kitchen was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste the final result.

As we formed the seasoned mashed potatoes into little balls and coated them in breadcrumbs, my mother shared with me the story of how she had learned this recipe. It had been passed down through generations of women in our family, each adding their own twist to make it uniquely their own.

My grandmother had learned the recipe from a dear friend who had immigrated from Ireland many years ago. She had brought with her a love for hearty, comforting dishes that warmed the soul and filled the belly. The potatoes appetizers had become a staple in our family gatherings, a dish that brought us all together around the table.

As we placed the coated potato balls onto a baking sheet and popped them into the oven, the anticipation grew. The smell of the potatoes appetizers baking filled the kitchen, making my stomach rumble with hunger.

Finally, the timer dinged, and we pulled the golden-brown potato balls out of the oven. My mother placed a few on a plate and handed me one to try. As I bit into the crispy exterior and tasted the creamy, flavorful interior, I knew that this recipe would become a favorite in my own repertoire.

Over the years, I have made these potatoes appetizers for countless family gatherings, holiday parties, and potlucks. Each time, they are met with rave reviews and requests for the recipe. I always smile and think of my mother and grandmother, knowing that their legacy lives on in every bite.

As I pass this recipe down to my own children and grandchildren, I hope that they too will cherish the memories of cooking together in the kitchen, learning from one another, and creating delicious dishes that bring joy to those around them.

And so, the recipe for Potatoes Appetizers continues to be a cherished tradition in our family, a reminder of the love and connection that food can bring. I am grateful for the lessons I have learned from my mother and grandmother, and I look forward to sharing this recipe with future generations to come.