Potato Bargain
Hearty Cape Cod dish featuring salt pork, onions, and sliced potatoes, offering rich flavors and satisfying comfort, perfect for a rustic family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Layer slices of salt pork in a baking dish.
- Add sliced onions over the pork.
- Place sliced potatoes on top, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Bake until potatoes are tender and flavors meld, approximately 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using thick-cut bacon instead of salt pork, or even a mixture of both. If you prefer a vegetarian option, replace the pork with mushrooms or a hearty vegetable like eggplant. Adding herbs such as thyme or rosemary can elevate the dish, providing a fragrant touch. Ensure to slice the potatoes evenly for consistent cooking. Check doneness by piercing with a fork.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed green vegetables for a balanced meal. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can enhance the flavors. Consider serving it alongside Dainty Ham Rolls for a complete spread. For a more rustic touch, crusty bread can be offered on the side to soak up the delicious juices.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes. Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave, but this may result in softer potatoes. For best results, cover the dish with foil while reheating in the oven.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Potato Bargain contains roughly 495 calories, with 7g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is a good source of protein (14% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (13% of the Daily Value), and iron (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 731mg per serving (32% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of pre-packaged sliced ones?
Absolutely! Fresh potatoes can be sliced thinly to achieve the desired texture. Just be sure to soak them in water for a bit to remove excess starch, which will help them cook evenly and avoid turning mushy. Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work well in this recipe.
What do I do if the potatoes are not tender after baking?
If the potatoes remain firm after the initial baking time, cover the dish with foil to retain moisture and return it to the oven for an additional 15-20 minutes. Checking periodically will help avoid overcooking. You can also increase the oven temperature slightly to speed up the cooking process.
Can I freeze this dish for later use?
Yes, you can freeze the baked dish, but it's best to do so without the salt pork, as it may not freeze well. Allow the dish to cool completely, then portion it into airtight containers. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly before serving.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).