Quirky Foodster
  1. Back

Trumfes al Caliu (Ember-Roasted Potatoes) (Trumfes al Caliu)

The Quirky Foodster Team

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (0)

10 minutes
Prep
45 minutes
Cook
4
Servings

Ingredients

  • Medium potatoes, whole, skin on — 800 g (6 medium)
  • Olive oil, for serving — 40 ml (3 tbsp)
  • Coarse salt, for serving — 5 g (1 tsp)

Method

  1. Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F) if not using an open fire.
  2. Wrap each potato loosely in foil if roasting in the oven, or place directly in hot embers if using a fire.
  3. Roast for 40-45 minutes until the skins char and the interior is completely tender.
  4. Let cool slightly, then split each potato open.
  5. Drizzle with olive oil and a generous pinch of coarse salt before serving.

Introduction: Whole potatoes roasted until the skins char and the interior turns creamy, traditionally cooked directly in the embers of a fire.

Cultural Background: Trumfes al Caliu reflects Andorra’s rustic mountain hearth cooking, where whole potatoes were once buried directly in hot embers, resulting in a smoky, tender side dish.

Tips: If using an open fire, turn the potatoes occasionally so they char evenly. Serve immediately after splitting open, while the interior is still steaming hot.

Variations: Top with a spoonful of alioli for extra richness. Serve with local cheese melted over the split, hot potato.

Vegetarian/Vegan: Naturally vegetarian and vegan as written.

Serving Suggestions: Serve as a rustic side to roasted or grilled meats.

Storage: Refrigerate for up to 2 days; texture is best enjoyed fresh.

Reheating: Reheat in the oven until warmed through; avoid microwaving as it can make the skin soggy.

Nutrition: 180 kcal | Protein 3g | Carbs 32g | Fat 5g

FAQs:

Q: Can this be done without an open fire?

A: Yes, a hot oven achieves a similar tender interior, though with less of the authentic smoky char.

Q: What potato variety works best?

A: A starchy, medium-to-large potato variety holds up well to the long roasting time.