Paprika. Butter. Potatoes. Need I say more? These potatoes are so delicious. They make the perfect side dish to any meal or as a main accompanied by cheese and salad.
I do not think I need to confess my love of paprika. I may have an addiction but it is one that I can live with. I really do love it. As a spice it is so versatile and adds such an amazing hit of smoky spice to everything. And as I also love natural remedies - the fact that there are so many health benefits to it is a real bonus!
Did you know that paprika is made from peppers and contains Capsicum? Capsicum can reduce inflammation, help pain and is a rich source of vitamin C. In addition paprika can, by all accounts, improve cholesterol, eyesight and the list goes on. Don't you just love herbs and spices?
The recipe below is based on feeding four people. I generally use Vivaldi or Maris Piper, however, any good small to medium baking potato would work.
Paprika Scored Oven Baked Potatoes
Ingredients:
8-12 medium sized potatoes
2tsp paprika
1/2tsp pepper
1tsp salt
1tsp garlic powder
100g butter
Method:
Heat oven to 190°C (374°F) and thoroughly wash the potatoes.
Slice each potato in half and on each portion score roughly 2/3rd of the way down, 1/2cm apart. Take care not to cut through the bottom of the potato half.
In a saucepan combine the butter, paprika, pepper, salt and garlic. Cook on a medium heat until the butter has melted.
Place all the potatoes, scored side up, on a baking pan and liberally brush each one with the paprika mixture.
Bake in the oven for 20 minutes. Take them out of the oven and brush the remaining paprika butter over the potatoes. (The sections will have opened up slightly, allowing better distribution of the butter).
Bake for a further 15 - 20 minutes.
Serve straight away and enjoy!