Potato Plumcake Recipe
This savory potato plumcake is a delightful twist on the classic sweet version. With a rich, smoky provola cheese, fragrant thyme, and a delicate crumb, it’s perfect for a light lunch or as an appetizer to serve with a salad. The combination of soft potatoes and the savory flavor of Grana Padano makes every bite irresistible. This recipe will guide you step by step to create a moist, flavorful plumcake thatβs sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients for Potato Plumcake
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Potatoes | 250g |
| All-purpose flour (00 flour) | 200g |
| Smoked provola cheese | 100g |
| Whole milk | 100g |
| Eggs | 175g |
| Grana Padano DOP cheese | 80g |
| Water | 50g |
| Instant yeast for savory dishes | 16g |
| Fresh thyme (or dried) | To taste |
| Fine salt | 4g |
| Extra virgin olive oil | To taste |
| Poppy seeds | To taste |
Instructions for Preparing the Potato Plumcake
-
Prepare the Potatoes:
Begin by boiling the potatoes in a pot of water for about 30-40 minutes or until tender. Once cooked, drain and allow them to cool slightly before peeling and mashing into a smooth puree. Set aside to cool completely. -
Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, sift the all-purpose flour and instant yeast together. This ensures that the yeast is evenly distributed and prevents clumping. Add the fine salt and mix well. -
Add Wet Ingredients:
Pour the room temperature whole milk into the bowl with the dry ingredients, followed by the water. Mix with an electric hand mixer or a whisk until smooth and well combined. -
Incorporate the Eggs:
Crack the eggs into the mixture and continue to whisk until the eggs are fully incorporated into the batter. -
Add the Mashed Potatoes:
Once the mashed potatoes have cooled, add them to the batter. Mix gently to combine, making sure the potatoes are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. -
Add Cheese and Thyme:
Cut the smoked provola cheese into small cubes, about 1 cm in size, and fold them into the batter. Also, add a small handful of fresh thyme leaves (or a pinch of dried thyme) to infuse the batter with a lovely herby flavor. -
Prepare the Plumcake Pan:
Grease a plumcake pan (approximately 26x10x7 cm in size) with a little olive oil, then dust with flour to prevent sticking. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, leveling the top with the back of a spoon. -
Decorate and Score:
Drizzle a bit of extra virgin olive oil on top of the batter, then lightly score the center of the cake lengthwise with a greased knife. This will help the cake rise evenly and create a professional finish. -
Bake:
Preheat the oven to 180Β°C (350Β°F). Place the pan in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Once the potato plumcake is baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with poppy seeds for a touch of elegance and extra flavor. Slice into portions and serve warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
This savory potato plumcake pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or can be enjoyed as a standalone snack. For an extra touch, serve with a dollop of sour cream or a tangy yogurt dip. Itβs also perfect for picnics or potlucks, as it keeps well and is easy to transport.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 slice) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 7g |
| Carbohydrates | 25g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
| Cholesterol | 60mg |
| Sodium | 150mg |
Tips for Success
- Mashed Potatoes: For the best texture, ensure the mashed potatoes are smooth and lump-free before adding them to the batter.
- Cheese Variations: You can substitute the smoked provola with other types of cheese like mozzarella, cheddar, or even goat cheese for a unique twist.
- Herbs and Spices: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or oregano for a personalized flavor profile.
- Storage: Store any leftover plumcake in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. You can also freeze slices for later enjoyment.
This savory potato plumcake is a wonderful dish to enjoy during any time of the year, offering a unique combination of savory ingredients that are both comforting and satisfying. Enjoy baking and savoring each bite!
