Crispy Ukrainian Potato Delight 🥔🌟

Ukrainian Grated Potato Bake

Overview:

Ukrainian Grated Potato Bake is a delightful dish that embodies comfort and warmth, perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends. This potato pudding boasts a tender and airy interior, complemented by a crispy exterior, offering a harmonious blend of textures in every bite. Whether served as a side dish or a main course, this savory creation is sure to impress.

Time Management:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour and 5 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1/4 pound bacon
• 2 onions
• 3 pounds new potatoes
• 1 cup half-and-half
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 egg yolks
• 4 egg whites

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 461.4
• Fat Content: 26.4g
  • Saturated Fat Content: 13.4g
• Cholesterol Content: 164.5mg
• Sodium Content: 212.1mg
• Carbohydrate Content: 46.7g
  • Fiber Content: 5.7g
  • Sugar Content: 4.1g
• Protein Content: 10.9g

Recipe Instructions:

1. Prepare Ingredients:

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   • Begin by sautéing the bacon in a medium-sized skillet over medium heat until it renders its fat. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the skillet and drain it on paper towels to remove excess grease.
   • Pour off all but 2 tablespoons of the fat from the skillet, then add the onions. Sauté the onions over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until they become deeply colored, which should take approximately 15 minutes. Once done, remove the onions from the heat and set them aside for later use.

2. Prepare Potatoes:

   • Coarsely grate the new potatoes by hand or using a food processor with a coarse grating blade.
   • Wash the grated potatoes in several changes of water to remove excess starch.
   • Squeeze the potatoes thoroughly in a clean linen or cotton kitchen towel to extract as much liquid as possible. Rinse and squeeze them again to ensure they’re as dry as possible.

3. Combine Ingredients:

   • In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes with the sautéed onions, bacon, half-and-half, and egg yolks. Season the mixture generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper, ensuring all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.

4. Preheat and Prepare Oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius), ensuring it reaches the desired temperature before proceeding with baking.

5. Beat Egg Whites:

   • In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. This step will add lightness and airy texture to the potato mixture.

6. Incorporate Egg Whites:

   • Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the potato mixture using a rubber spatula, taking care not to deflate the mixture. This step ensures the final dish achieves a light and fluffy texture.

7. Transfer to Baking Dish:

   • Carefully transfer the potato mixture to a well-buttered round 10-inch baking dish or a heavy ovenproof skillet, spreading it evenly.

8. Bake:

   • Dot the top of the potato mixture with butter to enhance flavor and achieve a golden brown crust during baking.
   • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake until the top is browned and crispy, and the potatoes are tender. This typically takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on your oven and the desired level of crispiness.

9. Serve:

   • Once fully baked, remove the Ukrainian Grated Potato Bake from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with sour cream, sautéed onions, or lingonberry preserves, adding additional layers of flavor and complexity to each delightful bite.

Serving Size:

• Serves 6 to 8 individuals, making it suitable for both intimate family meals and larger gatherings.

Tips and Variations:

• For added flavor, consider incorporating grated cheese into the potato mixture before baking, adding a delightful cheesy essence to the dish.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as thyme, rosemary, or paprika, to customize the flavor profile to your preferences.
• To make this dish vegetarian-friendly, simply omit the bacon and replace it with your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through before serving.
• Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs as desired.

Conclusion:

Indulge in the comforting flavors and textures of Ukrainian Grated Potato Bake, a timeless dish that celebrates the rich culinary heritage of Eastern Europe. With its crispy exterior, tender interior, and irresistible aroma, this savory creation is sure to become a favorite among family and friends alike. Serve it as a side dish or a main course, and savor each delicious bite accompanied by your favorite condiments and accompaniments. Enjoy the warmth and satisfaction that this hearty potato pudding brings to every meal! 🥔🍽️