Vegan baked potato with spinach & mushrooms
This hearty vegan baked potato with mushroom and spinach makes a perfect weeknight meal that is not only easy to make but also gluten-free. So, whether you’re a vegan or simply looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, this recipe is filled with flavour, health benefits and comfort!
What’s your go-to potato recipe? Ah, the humble potato. The versatile veggie has been a staple in kitchens around the world for centuries. It’s amazing how such a simple ingredient can be transformed into countless mouthwatering dishes. But today, I want to share with you this potato recipe – a flavourful vegan baked potato!
Fun Facts about Baked Potatoes or Jacket Potatoes
Did you know that the largest baked potato ever recorded weighed a whopping 8 pounds and 4 ounces? Imagine the size of that spud! Speaking of size, potatoes come in various shapes and sizes, making them a versatile ingredient for any dish.
Another interesting fact is that the term “jacket potato” is commonly used in the United Kingdom to refer to baked potatoes. The term originated from the tradition of baking potatoes with their jackets, or skins, intact. This method helps retain moisture and creates that irresistible crispy skin we all love.
The Health Benefits of Ingredients Used for This Vegan Baked Potato
Now let’s talk about the health benefits of the ingredients we’ll be using to create this stuffed baked potato masterpiece. The star ingredient is, of course, the potato itself. Potatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fibre. They provide a steady release of energy, making them a great choice for sustained endurance.
To enhance the flavours and nutritional value, we’ll be adding a variety of ingredients to our vegan baked potato. Olive oil, used to brush potato skins, is rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. Sea salt, sprinkled on top, not only adds a burst of flavour but also provides essential minerals.
For the filling, we’ll be using spinach, a nutrient powerhouse packed with iron, calcium, and antioxidants. Onions and garlic add depth and flavour while offering immune-boosting properties. Chestnut mushrooms provide a meaty texture and are a great source of B vitamins. To add a kick, we’ll sprinkle chilli flakes, which contain capsaicin, known for its metabolism-boosting properties.
If you’re looking for a creamier filling, feel free to add plant-based cream. It adds a luscious texture and a touch of indulgence to our vegan baked potato.
5 Tips for Making Vegan Baked Potatoes
Here are some additional tips to ensure your vegan baked potatoes turn out perfectly every time:
- Choose the right potatoes: Look for starchy varieties like Russet or King Edward potatoes. They have a fluffy texture that pairs perfectly with crispy skin.
- Don’t rush the baking process: Baking the potatoes at a slightly lower temperature for a longer time ensures a fluffy interior and crispy skin.
- Season generously: Potatoes can handle bold flavours, so don’t be afraid to add plenty of salt, pepper, and spices to enhance their taste.
- Experiment with fillings: While the filling in this recipe is delicious, feel free to get creative and customise it to your liking. Add your favourite vegetables, herbs, or spices to make it your own.
- Serve immediately: Baked potatoes are best enjoyed straight from the oven when the skin is crisp and the filling is piping hot.
Vegan Baked Potato Variations
Here are some baked potato variations to suit different preferences and dietary needs:
- Kid-Friendly Options:
- Cheesy Broccoli: Top the baked potato with steamed broccoli florets and a sprinkle of cheese.
- Pizza Potato: Spread marinara sauce on the potato and add your favourite pizza toppings, such as mushrooms, and vegan pepperoni.
- Protein-Packed Options:
- Mexican Fiesta: Fill the potato with black beans, corn, salsa, and avocado for a Tex-Mex twist.
- Mediterranean Delight: Top the potato with hummus, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a drizzle of tahini sauce.
- Comfort Food Options:
- Loaded Baked Potato: Pile on vegan sour cream, crispy vegan bacon bits, chives, and vegan cheese for the ultimate indulgence.
- BBQ Jackfruit: Shred-cooked jackfruit and mix it with your favourite BBQ sauce. Top the potato with the jackfruit and salad.
FAQs on Baked Potatoes
Reasons to make Jacket potato with mushroom spinach
- Budget-friendly, using simple and affordable ingredients – estimated at £3.60
- Suitable for various dietary needs, including vegan, gluten-free, and plant-based diets.
- Quick and easy to make – requiring minimal preparation and cooking time
- Decadent and nutritious
Final thoughts
There you have it, vegan baked potatoes are a delightful and comforting meal that can be enjoyed by everyone. From their humble beginnings to their versatile nature, there’s something truly special about this classic dish. Whether you choose to stick to traditional fillings or experiment with creative toppings, the result is always a satisfying experience.
So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the aroma of crispy potato skins and savoury fillings fill your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, vegan baked potatoes are sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces. Enjoy the hearty goodness of this timeless comfort food.
Question?
Now, it's your turn to share your vegan baked potato adventures! Have you tried any unique toppings or fillings? What's your favorite way to enjoy this classic dish? I'd love to hear from you in the comments below.
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Vegan baked potato with mushrooms and spinach
Equipment
- Baking tray
- Brush for olive oil
- Knife for chopping
- Spoon for stirring
- Stovetop pan or skillet
Ingredients
- 2 potatoes baking potatoes: depending on how many you want
- 1 tbsp olive oil to brush
- 1 tbsp sea salt course: to sprinkle
To make filling
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cups spinach
- 1 small onion chopped
- 1 clove garlic minced
- ⅛ tsp Himalayan salt to taste
- 1 tsp black pepper to taste
- 1 tsp chilli flakes
- 2 tbsp vegan cream optional
- 1 cup chestnut mushrooms sliced
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Scrub the potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. Pat them dry with a kitchen towel.
- Place the potatoes on a baking tray and brush them with olive oil, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Sprinkle the potatoes with coarse sea salt, making sure to cover the entire surface.
- Bake the potatoes in the preheated oven for approximately 35min – 1 hour or until the skins are crispy and the insides are tender.
While the potatoes are baking, let’s prepare the filling:
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and translucent.
- Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and become golden brown.
- Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted.
- Season with Himalayan salt, black pepper, and chili flakes according to your taste preference.
- If desired, add plant-based cream to create a creamy filling. Enjoy!
Notes
- Cooking tip: To speed up the baking process, you can partially cook the potatoes in the microwave before transferring them to the oven. This will reduce the baking time by about 20 minutes.
- To make the potato soft: If you prefer a softer skin, you can wrap each potato in foil before baking. This will help retain moisture and create more tender skin.
- Storage: Leftover baked potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Estimated breakdown cost of Ingredients: Please note that the prices may vary depending on your location and the quality of ingredients used.
- 2 or more baking potatoes: £1.50
- 1 tbsp olive oil: £0.10
- 1 tbsp coarse sea salt: £0.05
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for the filling): £0.10
- 3-4 cups of spinach: £0.80
- 1 small onion: £0.20
- 1 cup chestnut mushrooms: £0.50
- 1 garlic clove: £0.05
- Himalayan salt, black pepper, and chilli flakes: £0.10
- 2 tbsp plant-based cream (optional): £0.30
- Estimated Cost = £3.60
