James Martin Leek Potato And Bacon Bake

James Martin Leek Potato And Bacon Bake

Dive into the comfort of James Martin's Leek, Potato, and Bacon Bake, a dish that perfectly combines creamy potatoes, savory leeks, and crisp bacon into a hearty meal ideal for any occasion. This recipe is a wonderful twist on the classic potato bake, offering a mix of subtle sweetness from the leeks and a smoky depth thanks to the bacon. It's simple to prepare yet rich in comforting flavors, making it a great choice for family dinners or cozy gatherings.

Ingredients for the Leek, Potato, and Bacon Bake

  • Vegetable or chicken stock: 700ml
  • Leeks, thinly sliced into rounds: 7
  • Potatoes, thinly sliced: 1.2kg
  • Butter: 30g
  • Double cream (optional): 4 tbsp
  • Streaky bacon, snipped: 4-5 rashers
  • Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

How to Make the Leek, Potato, and Bacon Bake

  1. Start by preheating your oven.
  2. Boil the sliced potatoes in stock until they start softening, then drain.
  3. Cook the leeks in melted butter until soft and translucent.
  4. In a baking dish, layer potatoes and leeks, seasoning as you go. Repeat the layers, then top with cream (if using) and bacon.
  5. Bake until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and crispy.
  6. Let it stand for a few minutes before serving.

This bake is not just about taste; it's a delightful journey through textures, from the creamy layers of potatoes and leeks to the crispy bacon on top. Ensuring the potatoes are sliced thinly and evenly is key to a uniform cook and optimal flavor absorption.

Storage and Reheating

For leftovers, allow the bake to cool to room temperature before transferring it to a sealed container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven covered with foil to avoid drying out, or microwave if you're in a hurry.

Nutritional Information

Per serving, you're looking at about 300-350 kcal, with 15g of fat, 35g of carbohydrates, 8g of protein, 5g of fiber, and 500mg of sodium.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I substitute regular potatoes with sweet potatoes? Yes, sweet potatoes can be used for a sweeter, more colorful dish.
  • Is pre-cooking the potatoes necessary? Yes, to ensure they are tender and fully cooked in the final bake.
  • Can this dish be made vegetarian? Absolutely, by omitting the bacon and using vegetable stock.
  • Can I add cheese to this recipe? Adding cheese like cheddar or mozzarella on top before baking will create a deliciously crispy and golden crust.

Embrace the warmth and comfort that James Martin's Leek, Potato, and Bacon Bake brings to your dining table. It's a dish that promises satisfaction in every bite, proving that sometimes, the simplest ingredients can create the most memorable meals​​​​​​.

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