Mary Berry Boulangere Potatoes Recipe

Discover the elegance of Mary Berry's Boulangère Potatoes, a delightful dish perfect for adding a touch of sophistication to your dining table. This recipe combines the simplicity of potatoes and onions with the richness of stock, creating a dish that's as comforting as it is elegant. Let's dive into the making of this classic, starting with its origins and how you can bring it to life in your kitchen.

Mary Berry's Boulangère Potatoes: A Culinary Delight

Boulangère potatoes, named after the baker's oven where they were traditionally cooked, offer a lighter alternative to the cream-laden gratin dauphinoise. This dish, with its layers of thinly sliced potatoes and onions, gently cooked in stock, is a testament to the beauty of simple, flavorful ingredients coming together.

Ingredients for the Boulangère Potatoes

To recreate Mary Berry's version, you'll need:

• White Potatoes (800g), thinly sliced for perfect layering
• Butter (25g) to add richness and flavor
• A single Onion, peeled and finely sliced, for that sweet, aromatic base
• Garlic Cloves (2), peeled and chopped, introducing a subtle warmth
• Fresh Thyme Leaves (1 tablespoon) for a touch of herbal freshness
• Vegetable Stock (300ml), providing moisture and depth of flavor
• Salt (½ teaspoon) and Black Pepper (¼ teaspoon) for seasoning
• Grated Parmesan (50g), offering a savory, cheesy crust​​.

How to Make Mary Berry's Boulangère Potatoes

The preparation is straightforward, focusing on layering and slow baking to achieve the perfect texture and depth of flavor:

1. Start by preheating your oven and preparing your baking dish with a light coat of butter.
2. Thinly slice your potatoes and onions, aiming for uniformity to ensure even cooking.
3. In a pan, melt butter and sauté onions, garlic, and thyme until softened.
4. Begin layering the potatoes and onion mixture in the baking dish, seasoning each layer as you go.
5. Pour vegetable stock over the assembled layers, allowing it to permeate through.
6. Finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before baking until golden and tender​​.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Mary Berry's Boulangère Potatoes are versatile, making an excellent side for roasted meats or as part of a vegetarian feast. They complement dishes like slow-cooked lamb, roast chicken, or even a simple green salad, adding a comforting and satisfying element to your meal​​​​​​.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage. Reheat in the oven or microwave until piping hot​​.

Nutritional Information

Each serving offers a balance of carbohydrates from the potatoes, fats from the butter and cheese, and a variety of vitamins and minerals. The exact nutritional content will vary based on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes​​.

FAQ about Mary Berry's Boulangère Potatoes

• Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare and bake the dish up to 24 hours in advance, then reheat before serving.
• What's the difference between boulangère and dauphinoise potatoes? The key difference lies in the liquids used; boulangère potatoes are made with stock, while dauphinoise potatoes are cooked in cream.
• Can I use different types of potatoes? Yes, floury potatoes like Maris Piper work best, but feel free to experiment with your favorites​​.

In summary, Mary Berry's Boulangère Potatoes recipe offers a delightful way to enjoy this classic dish, perfect for any occasion that calls for an elegant, comforting side. Its simplicity, paired with the depth of flavor from the stock and herbs, makes it a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their culinary repertoire.