This was traditionally regarded as a student’s dish in Bulgaria, celebrated for its ease of preparation, affordability, and satisfying taste. Over time, it has evolved into a favorite comfort food, often served with a gourmet twist.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Ingredients (Serves four people)
- 8 medium potatoes, peeled and halved
- 8 slices of bacon
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- 2-3 slices of yellow onions (optional)
- Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs (for garnish) (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 100 grams of grated cheese (optional)
1 tablespoon is circa 15 ml, and a teaspoon is circa 5 ml
Preparation Method
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Peel and halve the potatoes. Bring a pot of salted water to boil and parboil the potatoes for about 10 minutes until slightly softened. Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.
Step 3: Wrap the Potatoes in Bacon
Once the potatoes have cooled, season them with salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Wrap each potato half with a slice of bacon. Secure the bacon with a toothpick if necessary.
Step 4: Bake the Potatoes
Place the bacon-wrapped potatoes on the prepared baking tray. Drizzle the olive oil over the potatoes. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the potatoes are tender. If you prefer, sprinkle grated cheese over the potatoes in the last 5 minutes of baking for a richer flavor.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, remove the potatoes from the oven and garnish them with fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs. Serve warm as a side dish or as a hearty snack.
Tips and Tricks
- Crispier Bacon: Pre-cook the bacon slices for 2-3 minutes before wrapping them around the potatoes for extra crispy bacon.
- Cheese Variation: Add grated cheddar, gouda mix, or Bulgarian yellow cheese for a cheesy twist.
- Chef’s Recommendation: A light sprinkle of smoked paprika before baking can add a smoky depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these baked potatoes with a fresh green salad or a creamy garlic dipping sauce. They also work wonderfully as a side dish to roasted meats or a standalone snack.
Wine Matching
This savory dish pairs well with a light red wine, such as Bulgarian Gamza, or a crisp white wine, like Bulgarian Misket. The wine’s light body complements the rich, savory bacon and tender potatoes. The dish also goes well with beer.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
Dietary Modifications
- Gluten-Free: This dish is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those avoiding gluten.
- Dairy-Free: Omit the cheese to keep this dish dairy-free.
Storage Suggestions
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to retain the bacon’s crispiness.
About the Potatoes (Картофки с бекон)
In Bulgaria, картофки (potatoes) are a staple food, versatile and beloved across the country. Historically, this baked potato dish wrapped in bacon was considered an affordable and accessible meal, especially popular among students for its simplicity and filling nature. Over time, it has become a nostalgic comfort food and a quick, savory side dish in Bulgarian kitchens.
Cultural Context
Once viewed as a humble meal, particularly for students, these baked potatoes wrapped in bacon have evolved into a widely appreciated dish across Bulgaria. Whether served as a snack or paired with a gourmet meal, they are a beloved comfort food, often representing warmth and simplicity in Bulgarian cuisine.
