Potato dishes are a comfort food favorite for many, and when paired with a creamy, flavorful sauce, they become an irresistible treat. This recipe for crispy potatoes with a creamy garlic-pepperoni sauce takes a simple dish and elevates it with bold flavors and a delightful texture. Perfect for a side dish or as a savory snack during gatherings, this dish is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
For the Potatoes:
- 3 potatoes, peeled and sliced into thin rounds
- Salt, to taste
- 3-4 tablespoons of cornstarch
- Sunflower oil, for frying
For the Sauce:
- 50 grams (1.76 oz) butter
- 5 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of flour
- 25 ml (0.84 fl oz) water
- 200 ml (6.76 fl oz) milk
- Salt, to taste
- Paprika, to taste
- Pepperoni, finely chopped
- 2 slices of cheese, chopped or shredded
Instructions:
Prepare the Potatoes:
- Dry and Coat: Pat the potato slices dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. Sprinkle with salt and toss with cornstarch until evenly coated. This helps them become extra crispy when fried.
- Fry the Potatoes: Heat a generous amount of sunflower oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the potato slices in batches, taking care not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side. Remove from the oil and let drain on paper towels.
Make the Sauce:
- Sauté Garlic: In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Create Roux: Sprinkle flour over the garlic, stirring to form a roux. Cook for another minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: Gradually add the water and milk, whisking continuously to prevent any lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add salt and paprika to taste, and the finely chopped pepperoni. Continue to simmer until the sauce thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
- Melt Cheese: Add the cheese slices to the sauce, stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
Serve:
- Presentation: Arrange the crispy potatoes on a serving platter. Pour the hot creamy garlic-pepperoni sauce over the potatoes. Optionally, garnish with additional paprika or chopped herbs for added color and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- As a Hearty Side Dish: Pair these crispy potatoes with a main course of grilled steak, roasted chicken, or a hearty vegetarian entrée like grilled portobello mushrooms.
- In a Casual Setting: Serve these at your next gathering or game day event; they’re perfect for sharing and sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
- As Part of a Brunch Menu: These potatoes make a great addition to a brunch spread, going well with everything from omelets to pancakes.
Cooking Tips
- Achieve Perfect Crispiness: Ensure the potatoes are dried thoroughly before coating with cornstarch. This removes excess moisture and helps achieve a crispier texture when fried.
- Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep the oil consistently hot when frying; if the temperature drops, the potatoes may absorb excess oil and become soggy.
- Prevent Sauce from Clumping: When making the sauce, add the milk slowly and whisk continuously to avoid lumps. A smooth sauce enhances the overall texture and flavor of the dish.
Nutritional Benefits
- Potatoes: Provide a good source of vitamins C and B6, potassium, and fiber, which are important for heart health and overall bodily functions.
- Garlic: Known for its health benefits, including boosting the immune system and reducing blood pressure.
- Dairy Ingredients: Offer calcium and protein, which are essential for bone health and muscle function.
Dietary Information
- This dish is gluten-free if gluten-free flour is used in place of regular flour. It’s also suitable for vegetarians, though not for vegans due to the dairy content. For those watching their calorie intake, consider using less oil by baking the potatoes instead of frying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful Comfort Food: Combines the comforting taste of fried potatoes with a rich, savory sauce that’s bursting with flavor.
- Visually Appealing: The golden-brown crisp of the potatoes topped with a creamy sauce makes this dish as attractive as it is delicious.
- Versatility: Easy to customize based on dietary preferences or whatever you have on hand. Experiment with different types of cheese or add herbs for new flavors.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner, a casual get-together, or a festive occasion, these potatoes fit right in.
Conclusion
This recipe for crispy potatoes with creamy garlic-pepperoni sauce combines the beloved texture of fried potatoes with the rich and savory flavors of a cheese-infused sauce. The result is a mouth-watering dish that’s perfect for indulging your taste buds. Whether serving family or guests, this dish promises to be a delightful culinary experience.