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What kind of recipe is it?
Potato Pavé with Parmesan Crust is a delightful French-inspired dish that elevates humble potatoes into a culinary masterpiece.
Layered and baked to perfection, it boasts a crispy Parmesan crust that contrasts beautifully with the tender, creamy interior.
This dish is perfect for those seeking to impress friends and family at dinner parties or special occasions.
Ideal for both novice and experienced cooks, Potato Pavé combines simplicity with exquisite flavor, making it a must-try for anyone wanting to add sophistication to their meal repertoire.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Potatoes | 2 pounds (about 900 grams) |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup (240 ml) |
| Milk | 1 cup (240 ml) |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Nutmeg (freshly grated) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Parmesan cheese (grated) | 1 cup (about 100 grams) |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons (30 grams), for greasing the dish |
| Fresh herbs (such as thyme or rosemary) | Optional, for garnish |
This combination of ingredients ensures a rich and flavorful experience, perfect for achieving that crispy Parmesan crust alongside a deliciously creamy potato filling.
Cooking Steps
- Preheat the oven to 180 °C (350 °F) and position the rack in the center of the oven.
- Grease a rectangular baking dish (approximately 20 cm x 30 cm / 8 in x 12 in) with 30 grams (2 tablespoons) of butter.
- While the oven preheats, peel and thinly slice 900 grams (2 pounds) of potatoes using a mandoline or a sharp knife to achieve even thickness, about 3 mm (1/8 inch) slices.
- In a saucepan, combine 240 ml (1 cup) of heavy cream, 240 ml (1 cup) of milk, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of freshly grated nutmeg.
- Heat over medium heat until just below boiling, stirring occasionally, then remove from heat.
- Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish, overlapping slightly.
- Pour half of the cream mixture evenly over the potatoes, ensuring they’re well covered.
- Repeat the layering process with the remaining potato slices and cream mixture.
- Sprinkle 100 grams (1 cup) of grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top layer of potatoes.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, ensuring it’s tightly sealed to prevent steam from escaping.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the potatoes are tender (check with a fork) and the edges are bubbling.
- Remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the top is golden brown and crispy, with the Parmesan cheese melted and fragrant.
- Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes to allow the layers to set for easier slicing.
- Garnish with optional fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary before serving.
- For serving, use a sharp knife to cut into squares or rectangles, and carefully lift portions with a spatula.
- Enjoy while warm for the best texture.
Variations
- Herbed Potato Pavé: Add 2 tablespoons (30 grams) of chopped fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley into the cream mixture for a fragrant twist.
- Cheesy Bacon Potato Pavé: Incorporate 150 grams (5 oz) of crumbled cooked bacon into the layers for an added smoky flavor, alongside the Parmesan cheese.
- Vegan Potato Pavé: Substitute the heavy cream and milk with 480 ml (2 cups) of unsweetened almond milk or coconut cream, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a dairy-free version.
- Sweet Potato and Carrot Pavé: Replace half of the potatoes with 450 grams (1 pound) of sweet potatoes and 450 grams (1 pound) of thinly sliced carrots for a colorful and slightly sweet variation.
Tips on plating and presentation
When serving Potato Pavé with a Parmesan crust, I like to emphasize its beautiful layers and golden crust to make the dish truly shine.
To create an appealing color contrast, I often pair it with vibrant greens, like sautéed spinach or herbs.
As for garnish options, a sprinkle of fresh chives or a dollop of crème fraîche elevates the presentation beautifully.
What other dishes can I pair it with?
Pairing Potato Pavé with complementary dishes can elevate your dining experience to new heights.
I love serving it alongside a crisp arugula salad, which adds a refreshing crunch. Grilled salmon or herb-roasted chicken also work well, enhancing the pavé’s rich flavors.
For sides suggestions, consider sautéed greens or a tangy ratatouille to really highlight those complementary flavors.
Your guests will be impressed!
What drinks can I pair it with?
Enjoying Potato Pavé isn’t just about the food; the right drink can beautifully enhance the entire experience.
I love pairing it with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the savory flavors perfectly. For a twist, a light gin and tonic provides refreshing contrast.
Both options elevate the dish, making each bite even more delightful. Cheers to delicious pairings!