Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for new potatoes with dill and butter.
A Taste of Home: New Potatoes with Dill and Butter
Growing up in Moldova, summers were always a special time for my family. The warm weather brought an abundance of fresh produce, and my mom had a knack for turning the simplest ingredients into something extraordinary. One dish that always stood out was her new potatoes with dill and butter. This recipe, with its fresh flavors and comforting warmth, holds a special place in my heart and instantly transports me back to those carefree days of childhood.
In Moldova, new potatoes are a staple during the summer months. They’re small, tender, and have a delicate, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with fresh dill, another beloved ingredient in our cuisine. My mom would often make this dish as part of our traditional summer meals, serving it alongside fresh salads, grilled vegetables, and sometimes a slice of crusty bread.
I remember the joy of helping my mom in the kitchen, scrubbing the potatoes until they were spotless. The smell of the potatoes boiling on the stove, mingled with the scent of dill, filled our home with an aroma that was both comforting and mouthwatering. When the dish was ready, the potatoes glistening with melted butter and flecked with vibrant green dill, it was impossible to resist. Every bite was a reminder of the simple pleasures of life and the love that went into preparing our meals.
Tips for Making the Perfect New Potatoes with Dill and Butter
- Choose the Right Potatoes: New potatoes are the star of this dish, so it’s important to choose the best quality you can find. Look for small, firm potatoes with thin skins. They should be free of blemishes and soft spots.
- Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: The key to perfect new potatoes is cooking them just until they’re tender. Overcooking can cause them to become mushy, which takes away from their delightful texture. Start checking them around the 15-minute mark by piercing them with a fork.
- Use Fresh Dill: Fresh dill is essential for this recipe. Its bright, slightly tangy flavor complements the earthiness of the potatoes and the richness of the butter. If you don’t have fresh dill on hand, you can use dried dill, but the flavor won’t be quite the same.
- Vegan Butter Options: If you’re vegan, like I am now, don’t worry—you can easily make this dish using vegan butter. There are many great plant-based butter options available that will still give you that rich, buttery flavor.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a side with grilled vegetables, a fresh tomato salad, or even as part of a larger spread of summer dishes. For a little extra zing, try adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving.
New Potatoes with Dill and Butter
Ingredients
- 1 lb new potatoes
- 1 bunch dill
- butter
- salt to taste
- pepper optional
Instructions
- Boil the Potatoes:Place the new potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the water.Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Drain and Dry:Drain the potatoes in a colander and let them sit for a minute to allow excess water to evaporate. You can gently shake the colander to help remove any remaining water.
- Add Butter and Dill:While the potatoes are still warm, return them to the pot or a large mixing bowl. Add the vegan butter and let it melt, gently tossing the potatoes to coat them evenly. Sprinkle the chopped dill over the potatoes and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss again to ensure the potatoes are well-coated.
- Serve:Transfer the potatoes to a serving dish. For an extra touch of freshness, serve with lemon wedges on the side, allowing guests to squeeze lemon juice over the potatoes if desired.
- Enjoy!Serve the potatoes warm as a side dish alongside your favorite main course.
Conclusion
New Potatoes with Dill and Butter is more than just a recipe—it’s a connection to my past and a celebration of the simple, fresh flavors that define Moldovan cuisine. Every time I make this dish, I’m reminded of my mom’s kitchen, the warmth of family gatherings, and the joy of sharing a meal made with love. Whether you’re looking for a nostalgic taste of home or simply want to enjoy a delicious and easy summer side dish, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home too.