Georgian Stuffed Potatoes

Ingredients

• 6 medium-sized potatoes 6 medium-sized potatoes
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 cup grated cheese (such as feta or mozzarella) 1 cup grated cheese (such as feta or mozzarella)
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 280 kcal / 1172 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 35g, 3g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. 2.
   Wash the potatoes thoroughly and place them in a large pot of salted water. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes until they are tender when pierced with a fork, approximately 15-20 minutes.
3. 3.
   While the potatoes are cooking, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes golden brown and caramelized.
4. 4.
   Once the potatoes are cooked, remove them from the pot and let them cool slightly. Cut off the top of each potato and carefully scoop out the flesh, leaving a thin layer of potato intact.
5. 5.
   In a bowl, mash the scooped-out potato flesh with a fork. Add the caramelized onions, smoked paprika, dried oregano, dried thyme, grated cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly combined.
6. 6.
   Stuff each hollowed-out potato with the filling mixture, packing it tightly.
7. 7.
   Place the stuffed potatoes on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden and crispy.
8. 8.
   Remove from the oven and let the potatoes cool for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Potatoes — Choose medium-sized potatoes with a smooth skin for easy stuffing. Be careful not to overcook them, as they should still hold their shape after being hollowed out.
• Onion — Caramelizing the onion adds a sweet and rich flavor to the filling. Cook it slowly over medium heat until it turns golden brown.
• Cheese — Opt for a cheese that melts well, such as feta or mozzarella, to achieve a creamy and gooey texture in the filling.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle some fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill, on top of the stuffed potatoes before serving.
• Experiment with different types of cheese to customize the filling according to your taste preferences.
• Serve the Georgian Stuffed Potatoes with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the filling mixture.
• Leftover stuffed potatoes can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven for a quick and satisfying meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Georgian Stuffed Potatoes as an appetizer or a side dish alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. They can also be enjoyed as a main course, accompanied by a tangy tomato sauce or a refreshing cucumber and yogurt dip.

Presentation advice

Arrange the stuffed potatoes on a platter, garnishing them with a sprinkle of fresh herbs. The golden-brown crust and the creamy filling will make for an enticing visual display. Consider serving them in individual ramekins or on small plates for an elegant presentation.