by Malcolm on October 13, 2011
Everyone thinks of lobster, when they think of Maine…but did you know that the potato industry nearly matches that of the spiny crustacean, in terms of revenue generated in the state? You might not believe it, until you drive through Aroostook County, the Northernmost county in the state, and pass through the thousands of acres of potato fields there. Farm stands sell every variety available, and we came home with a few perfect specimens of the Russet potato; thick-skinned to withstand the cold temperatures, with white, fluffy insides that burst open when you apply pressure to the baked skin.
While I still think the best way to appreciate a good potato is to overcook it slightly so the skin turns crackly, scoop out the flesh, and slather the skins with lots of butter and sour cream, that doesn’t exactly make for a healthy meal. We’re big fans of this stuffed version, inspired by Indian take-out samosas, those little crunchy fried puffs of potato and curry. They’re super fast and easy to make, and could even be considered reasonably good for you, since there is very little dairy or fat used. They’re perfect with a skewer of grilled lamb, but are substantial enough to stand on their own as a weeknight dinner.
Samosa-Inspired Baked Stuffed Potatoes
Adapted from a recipe by Food Network Kitchens; Serves 4
Ingredients:
- 2 large potatoes
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 1 1/2 teaspoons curry powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons minced ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
- Splash of olive oil
- 1/8 – 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 3/4 cup peas, cooked
- 3 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Plain yogurt (for topping)
Method:
- Wash potatoes, and pierce with fork. Bake directly on oven rack at 400 degrees, for one hour.
- While potatoes cook, saute onions, curry, ginger, and mustard in olive oil over medium heat until onions soften, about 5 minutes.
- Carefully remove potatoes from oven (potatoes are hot!) and split lengthwise, scooping insides into a bowl. Add onion mixture, cilantro, peas, and butter, and mash with a potato masher until most lumps are gone. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Fill potato skin halves with mixture, top with yogurt, and serve.
1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds… whole?
Yes, use whole mustard seeds.
Thanks. I hate asking seemingly stupid questions, but there was a time where I thought “mix by hand” meant literally using my hand to mix. Next week I’m graduating from baths to showers!
This is such a wonderful and delicious idea , i am gonna try this once.
Thank you, Finla! They are delicious…let me know what you think!
Really, really love this idea! Maybe I’ll buy a potato for the first time in…years?
Thanks, Rachel! Give them a try!
i made this tonight after searching for a new and different curry recipe, and this idea was incredible! i changed a few things and added a LOT more curry powder and spices, but it was a fantastic base and it turned out so deliciously. everybody i made it for absolutely loved it. it will definitely be a staple for future curry nights. thanks!
So glad to hear you liked the idea! Thanks for stopping by, Susan!
Oh, what a fantastic idea! Can’t wait to try it. Haven’t had a good samosa in over a year…curse this lack of good Indian food in Northern California! Thank you!
I love the flavours of samosa-filling and like that I can now have it without indulging in the deep fried version – thank you so much for this recipe… I’ll definitely be trying it soon!