| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 40 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 782 | 50g | 25g | 55g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 3g | 4g | 40g | 1.5g |
Why I Love French Truffade
There’s something innately comforting about digging into a bowl of the French dish Truffade. This classic French side dish, which highlights the humble potato and the rich flavors of Tomme de Cantal cheese, is a recipe close to my heart for its remarkable blend of rustic simplicity and gourmet flavor.
The Joy of Discovery
I recall the day I happened upon this recipe while trying to re-create a meal I enjoyed during a wine-tasting tour in the South of France. I was particularly captivated by Truffade, a potato dish that was crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and perfected by the creamy deliciousness of Cantal cheese. Much like the versatile Pommes Frites, Truffade embodies the hearty, earthy flavors that speak of French country cooking.
An Unexpected Fusion
This Truffade recipe is a delightful surprise every time I prepare it. It marries surprisingly well with the West Coast, health-conscious mindset – a meal that speaks to the concept of “everything in moderation”, including moderation itself. Combining the wholesomeness of potatoes, the creamy goodness of cheese, and the aromatic zing of garlic, it’s a perfect way to treat yourself while still respecting your body’s nourishment needs.
While usually served as an accompaniment to meat dishes, it pairs remarkably well with lighter sides like a fresh, crispy salad or roasted vegetables. If ever in doubt, just follow Jacques Pépin’s approach to rustic French cooking – simple, uncomplicated, and flavorful.
Happy Cooking!
Whether you’re preparing the Truffade for a cozy family dinner or a chic dinner party, the simplicity and depth of flavors it offers are sure to impress. Slice into its crispy exterior, watch the creamy cheese melt away, and savor each mouthful – that’s the joy of food, of cooking, that we all share and what makes recipes like this a pleasure to create. Happy cooking!
What You’ll Need
- 2 lbs potatoes
- 1 lb Tomme de Cantal cheese
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 lb thick cut bacon
- 1 medium yellow onion
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Method
Step One
Peel and cut the potatoes into thin slices. Set them aside.
Step Two
Cut the Tomme de Cantal cheese into small cubes and set it aside.
Step Three
Smash the garlic cloves using the side of a knife. Then mince them finely.
Step Four
In a large frying pan or iron skillet, melt the butter and vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the thick cut bacon and cook until it is brown and crispy. Remove it from the pan and set aside.
Step Five
In the same pan, add the potatoes, garlic and onion. Season with salt and pepper. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are golden brown.
Step Six
Add the chopped cheese to the potato mixture in the pan. Stir gently until the cheese begins to melt and stick to the potatoes.
Step Seven
Return the cooked bacon to the pan, stirring to incorporate it into the potato and cheese mixture. Continue cooking until all the cheese has melted and the ingredients are well combined.
Step Eight
Serve the Truffade warm, straight from the pan. Enjoy!
