Delia Smith Boulangere Potatoes

Delia Smith's Boulangère Potatoes is a traditional French dish that showcases the humble potato in a wonderfully aromatic and comforting way. This recipe, attributed to the renowned British cook Delia Smith, is all about layers of thinly sliced potatoes and onions, infused with herbs, and cooked in a mixture of stock and milk, creating a dish that is both simple and sublime.

Delia Smith Boulangère Potatoes: Cultural or Historical Context

Boulangère Potatoes have their roots in French cuisine, named after the baker's oven in which they were traditionally cooked. The dish was typically given to the baker to cook slowly in the residual heat of the bread oven, resulting in a tender, flavorful potato dish that's less rich than its cousin, the gratin dauphinoise, because it uses stock instead of cream.

Ingredients for the Boulangère Potatoes

• Desirée or Romano potatoes (1.15 kg), peeled and thinly sliced
• Fresh rosemary (20 g), to infuse the potatoes with a fragrant aroma
• Medium onions (3), thinly sliced for a subtle sweetness
• Vegetable stock (400 ml) and milk (200 ml), creating a savory base
• Butter (55 g), for a golden finish
• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Preparation Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Layer the potatoes and onions in a buttered ovenproof dish, sprinkling with rosemary and seasoning between layers.
3. Heat the stock and milk together and pour over the potato layers.
4. Dot with butter, then cover and bake, uncovering later to achieve a golden brown top.

Storage and Reheating

Boulangère Potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through, ensuring the dish retains its texture and flavor.

Nutritional Information

Each serving provides approximately 270 kcal, with 45 g of carbohydrates, 5 g of protein, and 8 g of fat. It's a comforting dish that balances rich flavors with the wholesomeness of vegetables.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use other types of potatoes? Yes, Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes can also work well, but ensure they are thinly sliced for even cooking.
• Can I make this dish ahead of time? Absolutely. Prepare, bake, cool, and then refrigerate. Reheat in the oven when ready to serve.
• What to serve with Boulangère Potatoes? This dish pairs beautifully with roasted meats or as a part of a vegetarian spread.

Delia Smith's Boulangère Potatoes recipe is a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients coming together to create a dish that's both comforting and elegant. Enjoy the creamy, tender layers of potato, the aromatic hint of rosemary, and the golden, crisp top that makes this dish a beloved classic​​​​​​.