Parson’s Potatoes

ByEmy Main Dishes
Delicious Parson's Potatoes served with herbs and seasoning

Parson’s Potatoes, or “Pfarrerkartoffeln”, is a delightful dish that brings the comforts of home cooking right to your table. Famed for its heartiness and rich flavors, this recipe shines with simple ingredients like potatoes and onions, enhanced by the succulent taste of chicken belly as a flavorful substitute for traditional bacon. Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, these potatoes are sure to please everyone’s palate.

Ingredients

  • 1 kg potatoes (2.2 lbs)
  • 200 g onion (7 oz)
  • 200 g chicken belly (7 oz, as a substitute for bacon)
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • Paprika to taste
  • 5 g allspice (1 teaspoon)
  • 60 ml lard (4 tablespoons)
  • 30 ml sunflower oil (2 tablespoons)
  • 250 ml water (1 cup)
  • Parsley leaves for decoration

Directions

  1. Peel the potatoes thoroughly and cut them into slices about 0.5 cm thick.
  2. Chop the onion and chicken belly into small pieces.
  3. Heat the sunflower oil in a pan.
  4. Add the diced onion and fry until translucent.
  5. Then add the chicken belly and sauté until nicely brown and golden.
  6. Add the sliced potatoes to the sautéed onions and chicken belly and mix everything well.
  7. Add schmalz, salt, pepper, paprika, and a teaspoon of allspice.
  8. Add the water and let everything simmer briefly, stirring regularly.
  9. Transfer the pan (if oven-safe) or the mixture to a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
  10. Cook in a preheated oven at 200 degrees Celsius (392 degrees Fahrenheit) until the potatoes are tender.
  11. Then remove the foil and increase the temperature to 250 degrees Celsius (482 degrees Fahrenheit).
  12. Roast for another 15 minutes until the potatoes are golden brown.
  13. Garnish the finished parson’s potatoes with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4-6 servings
Nutrition info (per serving): Approx. 400 calories, 18g fat, 50g carbohydrates, 8g protein.

How to serve

Parson’s Potatoes make a wonderful centerpiece for a family meal. Serve them hot, straight from the oven, garnished with fresh parsley for that extra touch of flavor and aesthetic appeal. Pair with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the dish. This hearty recipe is versatile and can also be enjoyed as a warm side dish alongside grilled meats or roasted vegetables.

FAQs

Can I use other types of meat instead of chicken belly?
Yes, you can substitute chicken belly with other meats such as shredded chicken breast or turkey bacon for a different flavor profile.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make Parson’s Potatoes vegetarian, simply omit the meat and add more vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms to enhance the flavor.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the potato and onion mixture in advance. Just cover and refrigerate, then cook it in the oven before serving to ensure it’s hot and fresh.