Herb-Crusted Potato Pillows

Potato bundles are a delightful and comforting dish that combines the heartiness of potatoes with the soft, buttery texture of homemade dough. These bundles are perfect for any occasion, whether as a snack, side dish, or even a main course. The recipe is simple yet satisfying, offering a rich combination of flavors from the creamy potato filling and the golden, flaky crust. In this article, we will guide you step-by-step through the process of creating these delicious potato bundles, ensuring they turn out perfect every time.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

  • 1 egg
  • 80 ml warm milk
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 4 g dried yeast
  • 200-250 g all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 30 g butter, softened

For the Filling:

  • 4-5 potatoes, peeled and boiled
  • 30 g butter
  • 100 g cheese (such as cheddar or mozzarella), grated
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste
  • 1 bunch fresh herbs (such as parsley or chives), chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

  • Prepare the Yeast Mix: Warm the milk until it’s comfortably warm to the touch (around 110°F or 45°C). Stir in the sugar until it dissolves completely. Sprinkle the yeast over the surface and gently mix. Let it rest undisturbed for 5-10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a frothy layer forms on top, indicating the yeast is alive and active.
  • Prepare the Dough: In a spacious bowl, blend the flour with the salt thoroughly. Create a well in the center and add the softened butter, egg, and the activated yeast mixture.
  • Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
  • Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 until it has risen to twice its original volume

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

  • Mash the Potatoes: While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. Start by mashing the boiled potatoes in a large bowl. Add the butter, grated cheese, salt, and pepper to taste.
  • Add Fresh Herbs: Fold in the chopped fresh herbs to add a burst of flavor to the filling. Set the filling aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Potato Bundles

  • Heat the Oven: Set your oven to 180°C (350°F) and allow it to come to temperature.Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Portion the Dough: After the dough has risen, gently deflate it to release any trapped air.Divide the dough into equal portions (about 8-10, depending on your preferred size).
  • Fill the Bundles: Roll out each portion of dough into a small circle on a lightly floured surface. Spoon a generous amount of the potato mixture into the center of each dough round. Carefully gather the edges of the dough and pinch them together to seal the filling inside, forming a bundle.
  • Bake the Bundles: Place the potato bundles on the prepared baking sheet, seam side down. Brush the tops with a little melted butter or egg wash for a golden finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bundles are golden brown and cooked through.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

  • Cool and Serve: Allow the potato bundles to cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
  • Garnish: For an extra touch, garnish with additional fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese before serving.

Conclusion

Potato bundles are a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that combines the comforting flavors of mashed potatoes and cheese with a tender, homemade dough. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or even a main course, these bundles are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. The steps outlined in this article will guide you through the process of making these bundles from scratch, ensuring a delicious and satisfying result. Enjoy them with family and friends, and savor the rich, savory goodness of each bite.

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