Twice-baked Potatoes I

Twice-baked Potatoes I Recipe | Vegetarian Food from USA

Region / culture: USA | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Twice-baked potatoes are a delicious and comforting side dish that can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a main course. This recipe takes the classic baked potato to the next level by adding in creamy ingredients and cheese for a rich and indulgent flavor.

History

The origins of twice-baked potatoes can be traced back to French cuisine, where they are known as "pommes de terre duchesse." The French version typically includes butter, cream, and egg yolks, creating a decadent and creamy potato dish. Over time, the recipe evolved and became popular in American cuisine, where it is often served as a side dish at steakhouses and family gatherings.

Ingredients

4 medium russet potatoes (7 to 9 oz (255 g))
vegetable oil to rub on potato skins
2 tbsp butter
0.5 cup milk
0.5 cup sour cream
4 oz (113 g) shredded cheddar cheese
0.5 tsp salt
Pinch of ground black pepper

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C).
Rub the potato skins with vegetable oil to ensure crispness.
Bake the potatoes for 1 hour until they are done.
Carefully remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool for 10 minutes.
Cut the potatoes in half lengthwise and scoop out the pulp with a small spoon.
Mash the potato pulp with a fork until it becomes smooth.
Add the remaining ingredients and mix well.
Spoon the mixture into the empty potato shells.
Increase the oven setting to broil.
Broil the potatoes for 10 or 15 minutes until they turn spotty brown and crisp.

Variations

Try adding in different types of cheese, such as Gruyere or Parmesan, for a unique flavor.
For a healthier twist, you can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
Experiment with different seasonings, such as garlic powder, paprika, or cayenne pepper, to customize the flavor to your liking.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to rub the potato skins with vegetable oil before baking to ensure they become crispy.

- Be careful when scooping out the potato pulp to avoid tearing the skins.

- For extra flavor, you can add in cooked bacon, green onions, or herbs to the potato mixture.

- To save time, you can bake the potatoes in advance and then finish the second baking step just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Twice-baked potatoes can be served as a side dish with grilled steak, roasted chicken, or a fresh salad.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making perfect twice-baked potatoes is to bake the potatoes until they are tender, then mix in the creamy ingredients and cheese before baking them a second time to achieve a crispy and golden brown top.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have cheddar cheese, you can use any type of cheese that melts well, such as mozzarella or Swiss.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the potatoes up to the point of filling the shells with the potato mixture, then cover and refrigerate them until you are ready to bake them a second time.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the twice-baked potatoes with chopped chives, parsley, or crispy bacon for a beautiful and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Twice-baked potatoes pair well with a variety of main dishes, such as grilled steak, roasted chicken, or seared salmon.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover twice-baked potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of twice-baked potatoes contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of twice-baked potatoes contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of twice-baked potatoes contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of twice-baked potatoes contains approximately 8 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Twice-baked potatoes are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (butter, milk, sour cream, cheese) and may not be suitable for those with dairy allergies.

Summary

Twice-baked potatoes are a delicious and indulgent side dish that is rich in carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They also provide essential vitamins and minerals, making them a satisfying and nutritious addition to any meal.

Summary

Twice-baked potatoes are a classic and comforting side dish that can be customized with different ingredients and seasonings to suit your taste preferences. With a crispy exterior and creamy interior, they are sure to be a hit at any meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Twice-baked Potatoes. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl learning how to cook from my own grandmother. She was a wonderful cook, always experimenting with new recipes and techniques in the kitchen. One day, she showed me how to make these delicious potatoes, and I was hooked from the very first bite.

The recipe was passed down to my grandmother from her own mother, who had learned it from a dear friend many years before. It was a simple yet flavorful dish, perfect for any occasion. The first step was to bake the potatoes until they were tender, then scoop out the insides and mix them with butter, sour cream, cheese, and seasonings. This mixture was then spooned back into the potato skins and baked again until golden and crispy.

I remember the smell of the potatoes baking in the oven, filling the kitchen with a tantalizing aroma that made my mouth water. When they were finally done, I couldn't wait to dig in and taste the fruits of my labor. The first bite was a revelation - creamy, cheesy, and oh so comforting. I knew then and there that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen for years to come.

Over the years, I have made these Twice-baked Potatoes countless times, each time adding my own twist or variation to suit the occasion. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, who have all raved about its deliciousness. It has become a signature dish of mine, one that I am always proud to serve to guests.

One of my fondest memories of making these potatoes was for a family reunion many years ago. I had spent hours in the kitchen, preparing a feast for my loved ones. When it came time to serve the potatoes, the room fell silent as everyone took their first bite. The looks of joy and satisfaction on their faces were priceless, and I knew then that my grandmother's recipe had struck a chord with everyone.

As the years passed, I continued to make these Twice-baked Potatoes for special occasions and everyday meals alike. They have become a comfort food for me, a reminder of the love and care that goes into every dish I make. I have taught my own children how to make them, passing down the recipe from generation to generation.

I am grateful to my grandmother for introducing me to this wonderful recipe, and for instilling in me a love of cooking that has stayed with me throughout my life. I may have learned how to make Twice-baked Potatoes from her, but the memories and moments shared over a delicious meal are what truly make this recipe special. And for that, I am forever thankful.