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
- Start by preheating your oven.
- Boil the sliced potatoes in stock until they start softening, then drain.
- Cook the leeks in melted butter until soft and translucent.
- In a baking dish, layer potatoes and leeks, seasoning as you go. Repeat the layers, then top with cream (if using) and bacon.
- Bake until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and crispy.
- 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.