Punched Potatoes Recipes

PORTUGUESE "PUNCHED" POTATOES (BATATAS A MURRO)

Steps:

• 1. Wash and scrub the potatoes. Remove any blemishes and pat dry.
• 2. Pierce with a fork in a couple of spots.
• 3. Coat with sea salt and a drizzle of olive oil. Gently rub the oil into the potatoes and place in small oven proof dish or pan.
• 4. Use an oven to table dish for easy serving. Cook at 400 degrees for 45 minutes to 1 hour depending on your oven.
• 5. Note: (You can also boil the potatoes in salted water, with the skin on for about 30-45 minutes. Pierce with a fork to check how tender they are.)
• 6. Meanwhile, make garlic oil: In a small saucepan heat the oil and add the garlic. Cook on low for a few minutes until the garlic turns slightly golden. Do not overcook or the garlic will become bitter!
• 7. To test the potatoes, pierce them with a fork or gently squeeze a potato holding your oven mitt. The potato should be soft.
• 8. When the potatoes are ready, punch them down with your fist wrapped in a clean dish towel. or with a meat mallet until they "POP" open. *Note: The potatoes are hot - be careful!
• 9. When ready to serve, pour the garlic olive oil over the potatoes and sprinkle on fresh cracked black pepper as desired.
• 10. Place in the oven on low until ready to serve or re-heat the next day! Enjoy!

PUNCHED POTATOES

Steps:

• Pre-heat the oven to 375.
• Bake the potatoes until soft (30 to 50 minutes, depending on the size).
• Slowly heat the oil.
• Remove from the heat and add the garlic.
• Allow steeping at least 10 minutes.
• Place the potato on a cutting board.
• Cover with a clean towel.
• Using a meat tenderizing mallet carefully punch the potato.
• Use a spatula to transfer to a plate.
• Pour the garlic oil and vinegar (if used) over the potato.
• Check the seasoning.