Potato Gambas: A Unique Twist
Creative Brunch Idea: Making Gambas with Potatoes
Experience a delightful variation of Gambas by using tender potatoes instead of shrimp. This dish offers a wonderfully hearty and comforting alternative, perfect for a weekend brunch or a cozy meal. The aroma of garlic infused in olive oil, combined with a hint of chili and the irresistible stretch of melted cheese, makes this a truly special recipe.
Potato Gambas Ingredients- 3-4 medium potatoes
- 3-4 dried bird’s eye chilies or peperoncino
- Pinch of salt
- Pinch of black pepper
- Generous amount of olive oil (enough to generously coat the pan base)
- 10 slices of garlic (about 2-3 cloves)
- Plenty of shredded mozzarella cheese (to taste)
- 1 slice of cheese (cheddar or string cheese, optional)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Begin by thoroughly washing the potatoes. Steam them in a steamer basket for 5-10 minutes using a pressure cooker, or boil them in a pot of water for 15-20 minutes until tender. They should be easily pierced with a fork.
Step 2
Take a pan with a thick bottom and pour in a generous amount of olive oil. The oil should be plentiful enough to generously coat the base of the pan, ensuring the potatoes cook moistly. Add the dried chilies (bird’s eye or peperoncino) and the 10 slices of garlic. Gently sauté over low heat to infuse the oil with their flavors. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 3
Cut the cooked potatoes in half and place them into the infused olive oil. You can use whole halves or cut them into larger chunks if you prefer them more cooked. Arrange the potatoes to ensure they soak up the flavorful oil.
Step 4
Adjust the heat to medium-low and fry the potatoes, turning them occasionally, until they are golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside. This process should resemble frying whole potatoes, aiming for a tender interior and a lightly crisp exterior while allowing the garlic and chili flavors to penetrate the potatoes.
Step 5
Carefully transfer the pan-fried potatoes, along with the infused garlic and chilies, to an air fryer basket or an oven-safe dish. Lightly season the potatoes with a pinch of salt and a pinch of black pepper, according to your preference.
Step 6
Now, place the dish into an air fryer or preheated oven set to 200°C (390°F) and bake for approximately 10 minutes. This step helps to further crisp the exterior of the potatoes while ensuring the inside remains fluffy and tender.
Step 7
The final, most delectable step! Generously sprinkle your desired amount of shredded mozzarella cheese over the potatoes. You can also add a slice of cheese on top for extra richness. Return to the air fryer or oven and bake at 200°C (390°F) for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and beautifully golden brown.
Step 8
Your magnificent Potato Gambas with melted, gooey cheese is now ready! Serve immediately while hot to best enjoy the delightful combination of garlicky aroma, cheesy goodness, and the soft texture of the potatoes.
