Ivas Merces Potato Pie with Boiled Potatoes

This delightful potato pie combines the creamy richness of cheese with the fresh taste of tomatoes and curd cheese, all enveloped in a comforting layer of perfectly boiled small potatoes. The pie is a wonderful fusion of flavors, appealing to anyone who adores hearty and savory dishes. Each bite offers a balance of textures, from the softness of the boiled potatoes to the creamy cheese filling. This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners, where the aromatic spices like cayenne pepper and cumin come together to warm the senses. Easy to prepare, this pie is also an excellent way to impress guests without spending too much time in the kitchen. The addition of fresh chives brings a pop of color and a mild oniony bite that completes the flavor profile. Rich in nutrients and satisfying, this potato pie is an ideal comfort food. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad or freshly steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It is also versatile, allowing you to adjust the spices and ingredients to suit your preference.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 2 kg small potatoes
• 300 g tomatoes
• 250 g curd cheese
• 50 g creme fraiche or sour cream
• 250 g matured Camembert cheese
• 100 g sour cream
• 1 pickled cucumber
• 1 onion

Spices and Seasonings:

• 2 tbsp chopped chives
• Salt, to taste
• Cayenne pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp caraway seeds
• 1 tsp sweet paprika powder
• Black pepper, to taste

Preparation Time

• Total: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Potatoes: Start by washing the small potatoes thoroughly. Place them in a large pot of salted water and boil for about 25 minutes until they are soft but firm enough to hold their shape.

2. Tomato Filling: While the potatoes are boiling, dice the tomatoes and remove the stem areas. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes with the curd cheese, creme fraiche, and chopped chives. Season with salt and cayenne pepper to taste, ensuring an even distribution of the spices for optimum flavor.

3. Cheese Cream: Peel the matured Camembert cheese and mash it well in a separate bowl. Add the 100 g of sour cream, stirring until a smooth mixture forms.

4. Flavor Enhancers: Finely chop the onion and pickled cucumber, then add them to the cheese cream mixture. This will add a crunchy texture and depth to the flavors.

5. Spice the Cream: Season the cheese mixture with salt, black pepper, caraway seeds, and sweet paprika powder. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are well combined.

6. Assemble the Pie: In a large ovenproof dish, arrange a layer of the boiled potatoes as the base. Spread the tomato mixture over the potatoes evenly.

7. Layer the Cheese: Follow with a layer of the cheese cream mixture on top of the tomato layer, ensuring it covers the surface uniformly.

8. Final Touches: Sprinkle some extra chopped chives and a dash of sweet paprika over the pie for added flavor and color.

9. Bake the Pie: Although the pie can be eaten without additional baking, heating the assembled pie in the oven at a low temperature can further meld the flavors if desired.

10. Serve and Enjoy: Allow the pie to cool slightly before slicing and serving. Pair it with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Tips

• Potato Selection: Use small, waxy potatoes for a smooth texture; they maintain their shape well upon boiling.
• Spice Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne or replace it with a milder pepper for less heat.
• Cheese Alternatives: Use Brie if Camembert is unavailable for a similarly rich flavor.

Nutritions

• Approximate Values per Serving:
  • Calories: 450
  • Protein: 18g
  • Fats: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace Camembert with a plant-based cheese alternative for a dairy-free version.
• Addity: Incorporate additional ingredients like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a crisp green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette for contrast.
• Add a side of sautéed green beans or grilled asparagus to enhance the meal's nutritional value.

Best Places

• Le Potager de Charlotte - A haven for plant-based dish lovers, offering innovative uses of vegetables. Location: 12 Rue de la Tour d'Auvergne, Paris, France.
• Vedge - Known for its creative and sophisticated plant-based menu in an elegant setting. Location: 1221 Locust St, Philadelphia, USA.
• Gauthier Soho - Featuring inventive dishes that highlight seasonal produce. Location: 21 Romilly St, Soho, London, UK.
• The Acorn - Specializes in gourmet vegetarian cuisine with local and seasonal ingredients. Location: 3995 Main St, Vancouver, Canada.
• Nix - An upscale eatery offering globally inspired vegetarian fare. Location: 72 University Place, New York, USA.
• Joia - Offers fine dining vegetarian experiences with an Italian flair. Location: Via Panfilo Castaldi, 18, Milan, Italy.
• Suvlaki GR - Offers Mediterranean twists on plant-based dishes. Excellent for its use of herbs and fresh produce. Location: 116 Stanton St, New York, USA.
• Runway 29 - Known for its chic ambiance and an array of vegetarian options. Location: 29 High St, Melbourne, Australia.
• Rasoterra - A vegetarian bistro emphasizing Catalonian flavors and ingredients. Location: Carrer del Palau, 5, Barcelona, Spain.
• Loving Hut - Worldwide chain known for its vegan philosophy and diverse menu. Location: 669 N High St, Columbus, USA.