Potato Muffins
Category: Appetizers
Serves: 12 muffins
These savory potato muffins are a delightful twist on traditional muffins, offering a comforting combination of soft potatoes, smoky bacon, and aromatic herbs. Perfect as a starter or a side dish, these muffins are sure to impress at any meal or gathering.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Potatoes (peeled and boiled) | 275g |
| All-purpose flour (00) | 250g |
| Smoked bacon (diced) | 100g |
| Whole milk | 190ml |
| Eggs | 3 |
| Grana Padano cheese (grated) | 60g |
| Instant yeast (for savory dishes) | 8g |
| Fresh thyme | 3 sprigs |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Fine salt | to taste |
| Nutmeg (freshly grated) | to taste |
| Black pepper | to taste |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Potatoes:
Begin by boiling the potatoes in a pot of salted water until they are soft and tender. Once cooked, drain the potatoes and let them cool for a moment. While still warm, mash them thoroughly using a potato masher or a ricer to get a smooth consistency. Set aside. -
Cook the Bacon:
In a pan over medium heat, add the diced smoked bacon and cook until it becomes crisp and golden. Remove the bacon from the pan and set it aside, keeping the rendered fat for extra flavor in later steps. -
Prepare the Muffin Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, break the eggs and whisk them lightly. Add the whole milk and extra virgin olive oil to the eggs, mixing them until smooth. Next, incorporate the mashed potatoes into the wet ingredients. Stir well to combine. -
Add Dry Ingredients:
Gradually sift the all-purpose flour into the mixture, followed by the instant yeast. Gently fold the ingredients together with a spatula, ensuring that the batter is smooth but not overworked. -
Season the Mixture:
Season the batter with salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and a pinch of grated nutmeg. Add the fresh thyme, removing the leaves from the stems and finely chopping them before stirring into the mixture. Be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. -
Add Bacon and Cheese:
Stir the cooked bacon and grated Grana Padano cheese into the mixture. The cheese will melt slightly into the batter, adding richness and depth to the flavor. -
Fill the Muffin Tin:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a muffin tin or line it with paper liners. Spoon the batter into the muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full to allow for expansion while baking. -
Bake the Muffins:
Place the muffin tin into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. -
Cool and Serve:
Once the muffins are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature as a delicious appetizer or side dish.
These potato muffins combine the comforting flavors of mashed potatoes, rich cheese, and smoky bacon with the aromatic freshness of thyme, making them a versatile and indulgent choice for your next meal. The soft, savory texture and satisfying taste are perfect for anyone who enjoys hearty, flavorful bites.
