Introduction:
Italian Potatoes Cooked Slowly is a traditional, rustic Italian dish that combines the simplicity of potatoes with rich, savory flavors.
Slow-cooked to perfection, these potatoes absorb all the aromatic seasonings, creating a delicious, tender side dish. Ideal for serving with meats or as a stand-alone vegetarian meal, this dish is comforting and packed with flavors that reflect Italy’s love for slow, careful cooking.
Ingredients:
2 lbs (900g) baby potatoes or small Yukon Gold potatoes, washed and halved
4 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, smashed
1 onion, sliced thinly
2 sprigs fresh rosemary (or 1 tsp dried rosemary)
2 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup vegetable or chicken broth (or water)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Lemon zest (optional, for a fresh zing)
Instructions:
Prepare the Potatoes:
Wash and halve the baby potatoes or small Yukon Gold potatoes. Set them aside.
Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet or heavy-bottomed pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the garlic cloves and sliced onions, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Cook the Potatoes:
Add the potatoes to the pan and toss them to coat with the oil, onions, and garlic. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Add the rosemary and thyme sprigs to the pan.
Slow Cook the Potatoes:
Pour in the broth (or water) and bring to a simmer.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the potatoes cook slowly for 40-45 minutes, or until tender, stirring occasionally.
Ensure the potatoes are partially submerged in the broth. If needed, add a little more broth or water as they cook to prevent sticking.
Finish the Dish:
Once the potatoes are tender and golden, remove the lid and let any remaining liquid cook off, allowing the potatoes to get a crispy golden crust on the edges.
Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if desired.
Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and optional lemon zest for a refreshing touch. Serve hot!
Description:
Italian Potatoes Cooked Slowly are a wonderfully simple yet flavorful dish. By cooking the potatoes on low heat, they absorb all the savory ingredients, creating a tender, creamy texture with a golden, crispy exterior. The garlic, onion, rosemary, and thyme infuse the potatoes with the aromatic essence of Italy. This dish can be enjoyed on its own or as a side to meat or seafood dishes. It’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion, with the slow cooking method bringing out the natural sweetness and richness of the potatoes.
Tips:
Choosing Potatoes: For best results, use waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or baby potatoes, as they hold their shape better when cooked slowly.
Cooking Time: The slow cooking time allows the flavors to meld, but be sure to check the potatoes towards the end of cooking to ensure they don’t dry out or burn. Add more liquid if necessary.
Crispy Potatoes: If you love a crispy edge, leave the lid off for the last 10 minutes to allow the potatoes to brown and get crisp.
Herb Variations: Experiment with other fresh herbs like sage or oregano to change up the flavor profile.
Variations:
With Cheese: Add a handful of grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese during the last 5 minutes of cooking for an extra rich and savory flavor.
With Vegetables: You can add carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini to the pan for more color and texture.
Spicy Version: Increase the red pepper flakes or add fresh chopped chili for a bit of heat.
With Olives: Add a handful of black or green olives for a Mediterranean touch.
Corrections:
If your potatoes aren’t as tender as you would like, add a little more liquid (broth or water) and continue cooking until they soften.
If the potatoes are too soft, reduce the liquid earlier or increase the heat towards the end to create a crispy crust.
Enjoy!
Indulge in these slow-cooked Italian potatoes, bursting with flavor from the herbs and spices. Whether you’re enjoying them as a hearty side dish or as the main event, they are guaranteed to bring comfort to your meal. Buon appetito!