Ingredients:
- 2 lbs baby red potatoes (or regular red potatoes/gold potatoes), cut into 1 – 1 1/2 inch pieces
- 1 onion, sliced into thick half circles
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 8 oz smoked sausage or kielbasa (smoked Polish kielbasa recommended), cut into 1-inch pieces
- 8 oz fresh mushrooms (baby Bella, white button, etc.), cut in half or quarters
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
- 1 Tablespoon spice/dry herbs blend
- Salt, to taste
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs, minced (parsley, thyme, chives, dill, etc.), for garnish
Preparation:
Step 1:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the potatoes and season them with salt and pepper. Fry the potatoes for about 10-15 minutes, or until they start to become tender and golden brown, stirring occasionally.
Step 2:
Add the sliced onions, red bell peppers, and smoked sausage to the skillet with the potatoes. Continue to cook for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions and peppers soften and the sausage is heated through and slightly browned.
Step 3:
Stir in the mushrooms and minced garlic, and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender.
Step 4:
Sprinkle in the fresh thyme and the spice/herbs blend. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the seasonings.
Step 5:
Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
Cooking Note:
It’s important to keep an eye on the heat to prevent the garlic and herbs from burning. Stirring occasionally helps in even cooking and prevents sticking.
Serving Suggestions:
Garnish the dish with a mix of fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives for a burst of freshness. This dish can be served as a main course or as a hearty side dish.
Tips:
- For a healthier version, you can use turkey sausage.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or yellow squash for more variety.
- Ensure that the potatoes are cut into even pieces for uniform cooking.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 45-50 minutes
FAQs:
Q1: Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes, you can substitute baby red potatoes with regular red or gold potatoes based on your preference.
Q2: Is there a vegetarian version?
For a vegetarian twist, omit the smoked sausage and consider adding extra mushrooms or your favorite plant-based protein.
Q3: Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! Simply reheat it gently on the stove or in the oven for a quick and delicious meal.
Q4: What herbs can I use for garnishing?
Experiment with a mix of parsley, thyme, chives, or dill for a delightful herbal touch.
Q5: Can I freeze the leftovers?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers. Thaw and reheat for a tasty second serving.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, our Fried Potatoes and Onions Peppers with Smoked Sausage recipe is a testament to the joy of simple, hearty meals. Perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends, this dish brings people together through its aromatic flavors and ease of preparation. Try it today and savor the warmth of home-cooked goodness!