Garlic Roasted Potatoes | Cartofi la Cuptor


Potatoes and chopped dill are such a common side dish in Romania, that I've never thought of posting this recipe by itself.  But after having been singled-out as the best recipe at several dinners with friends, I thought it deserves its own spot.  Here, the basic dish is further complemented with green garlic and bacon pieces, for a result that boasts both great taste and enhanced colorful presentation.

Ingredients:
 - 1.5 pounds of potatoes
 - Fresh dill
 - Bacon (3-4 strips)
 - 1-2 green garlic plants
 - Cooking oil
 - Spices: salt, pepper, chili pepper

Preparation:
 - First, use a pan to fry the bacon strips (no oil is needed, just heat up the pan and cook the bacon on both sides until they turn a nice red color).  When ready, remove from the pan, and tear the strips into smaller bite-size pieces.
 - Wash and peal the potatoes, then cut them in cubes.  We'll first boil them to get them soft on the inside, then broil them at high heat to add a nice crust all around.
 - Bring water to a boil.  Add the potato cubes, and keep boiling for about 15-20 minutes.  The potatoes are done when a toothpick easily goes through them, but they are not yet mushy (if you boil them for too long, they'll start falling apart).  Use a colander to discard the water.
 - Heat the oven to 500F.  Take a baking pan, and lightly coat it with oil (to prevent the potatoes from sticking to the bottom). Add the potatoes, and place the pan in the oven for about 15-20 minutes (or until you see the potatoes starting to take a nice caramel color).  Use a spatula to turn the potatoes, and sprinkle the spices (salt, pepper, and chili pepper) all over.  Place back in the oven for another 10-15 minutes.
 - While the potatoes are cooking, chop about a cup of fresh dill, and 1-2 green garlic plants.
 - In the end, mix together the potatoes, bacon, dill, and garlic.
 - Serve immediately.

Presentation:
 - The dish has plenty of colors and can provide for a great presentation all by itself.  However, a delicious steak and a glass of cold beer can greatly enhance the presentation.  :)

0 comments: