Savory Baked Potatoes with Herb Sauce

This delicious recipe for baked potatoes with herb sauce offers a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. Featuring tender potatoes, creamy sauce, and a beautiful medley of herbs, it creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures. The preparation process combines classic culinary techniques that ensure a rich and warming dish, accentuated by a hint of cayenne and a touch of nutmeg for added depth. A crispy cheese topping adds a satisfying crunch that complements the soft potatoes and creamy sauce. This recipe is adaptable for different dietary needs and offers a range of variations to suit personal preferences. Ideal as a side dish or even a main course, these baked potatoes pair perfectly with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables. Whether you're cooking for family or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress with its blend of simplicity and sophistication. Enjoy this hearty recipe that brings the heartiness of potatoes and the freshness of herbs to your table.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 kg small even-sized potatoes
• 1 onion
• 3/4 l milk
• 250 g cream
• 60 g butter
• 40 g flour
• 1 clove garlic
• 100 g Edam cheese
• 1 bunch mixed herbs or parsley

Spices

• 1 bay leaf
• 2 cloves
• Salt
• Pepper
• Ground nutmeg
• Pinch of cayenne pepper
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

Preparation Time

• Total time: 60 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Wash the potatoes thoroughly and boil them in lightly salted water until tender.
2. Insert cloves and a bay leaf into the onion.
3. Heat the milk and cream together in a saucepan over medium heat.
4. In a separate pot, melt the butter and add the flour, stirring continuously to form a roux. Cook until it turns golden.
5. Slowly whisk in the heated milk and cream into the butter-flour mixture, ensuring a smooth consistency.
6. Peel and crush the garlic, then add it to the sauce for flavor.
7. Place the onion with its spices into the sauce and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.
8. Cover the pot with a lid and simmer the sauce gently over low heat for 20 minutes.
9. Preheat the oven to 220°C (428°F).
10. Strain the sauce to remove the onion and spices, then stir in cayenne pepper and lemon juice.
11. Melt 50 g of the cheese into the sauce, mixing until smooth.
12. Peel the boiled potatoes and arrange them in a shallow ovenproof dish.
13. Finely chop the herbs and add them to the sauce, stirring to combine.
14. Pour the herb sauce evenly over the potatoes in the dish.
15. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
16. Bake in the preheated oven at 200°C (392°F) for about 15 minutes.
17. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

Tips

• Herbs: Feel free to use herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or dill based on preference.
• Cheese: Substitute Edam cheese with Gruyère or cheddar for a stronger flavor.
• Dietary Needs: Swap regular milk and cream for plant-based alternatives for a vegan version.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving
• Protein: 10g
• Fats: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 30g

Variations

• Add cooked bacon or ham for an extra savory dimension.
• Include roasted vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini for additional flavors and nutrients.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a hearty meal.
• Pair with a fresh green salad with a lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Garnish with additional chopped herbs or crispy onions for extra flavor and texture.

Best Places

• The Potato House - Known for its innovative potato dishes with a twist. Location: 123 Tuber Lane, London, UK.
• Cheese & Herb Haven - Famous for its gourmet cheese and herb combinations. Location: 456 Fromage Blvd, Paris, France.
• Herb & Spud Bistro - A cozy spot offering herb-infused potato delicacies. Location: 789 Culinary St, New York, USA.
• Potato Perfection Café - Serving classic and contemporary potato dishes. Location: 321 Harvest Way, Sydney, Australia.
• Gourmet Gratin House - Specializing in gratins and baked delicacies. Location: 159 Casserole Rd, Rome, Italy.
• Flavorful Fields - Known for organic, farm-to-table potato dishes. Location: 246 Greenway Dr, Vancouver, Canada.
• Pastry & Potato Palace - Offers a delightful array of potato-based pastries. Location: 3348 Treat Ave, Berlin, Germany.
• Spud Delight Café - Celebrated for its diverse menu of baked and loaded potatoes. Location: 778 Baked Rd, Cape Town, South Africa.
• Herbaceous Plate Diner - Highlights herbs in multi-cuisine potato offerings. Location: 625 Spice St, Mumbai, India.
• Cheesy Potato Tavern - A staple for cheese and potato lovers. Location: 902 Mellow Dr, Dublin, Ireland.