Potato Rusks. Mrs. E. S. Jordan. Recipe

Potato Rusks Recipe

History and Fun Facts:
Potato Rusks are a classic and beloved recipe that have been enjoyed for generations. These delicious treats have a rich history, with origins dating back to the mid-19th century. They were particularly popular in American households, where they were often served as a breakfast or snack item.

Potato rusks are made by incorporating mashed potatoes into the dough, which gives them a soft and fluffy texture. The addition of butter and lard gives them a rich and buttery flavor, while the sugar adds a touch of sweetness. These rusks are flavored with yeast, which provides them with a lovely aroma and helps them rise during the baking process.

These rusks are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a variety of spreads such as butter, jam, or cream cheese. They are perfect for breakfast or brunch, but can also be enjoyed as a delightful snack any time of the day.

Now, let's dive into the recipe:

Ingredients:
- 6 good-sized potatoes, cooked until soft and mashed
- ½ cup butter and ½ cup lard, mixed
- 1 cup sugar
- ½ cup cooled potato water
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 cup yeast
- 3 eggs

Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, butter, lard, sugar, cooled potato water, flour, and yeast. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the mixture rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
3. Once the dough has risen, beat the eggs in a separate bowl. Add the beaten eggs to the dough mixture and incorporate them thoroughly.
4. Begin working the dough using your hands. Knead it for about 5-10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Form the dough into small, round rusks, approximately 2-3 inches in diameter. Place them onto a greased baking sheet, leaving some space between each rusk for them to rise further.
7. Bake the rusks in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and have a slightly crispy exterior.
8. Once baked, remove the rusks from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes.
9. Serve the potato rusks warm or at room temperature. They can be enjoyed as is or paired with your favorite spreads or toppings.

Similar Recipe Dishes:
If you enjoyed making and eating these Potato Rusks, you might also be interested in trying out similar recipes that incorporate potatoes into baked goods. Here are a few ideas:

1. Potato Bread: Create a soft and flavorful bread by incorporating mashed potatoes into the dough. This bread is perfect for sandwiches or toast.

2. Potato Rolls: Make light and fluffy dinner rolls by replacing a portion of the flour in a traditional recipe with mashed potatoes. These rolls are perfect for family dinners or holiday feasts.

3. Loaded Potato Muffins: Combine mashed potatoes with bacon, cheese, and green onions to create delectable savory muffins. These make a fantastic side dish or appetizer.

4. Potato Pancakes: Grate raw potatoes and combine them with flour, eggs, and seasonings to create crispy and delicious pancakes. Serve them with sour cream or applesauce for a delightful breakfast or brunch treat.

Remember, there are endless possibilities when it comes to incorporating potatoes into your baking adventures. So, don't be afraid to get creative and enjoy the deliciousness of this versatile ingredient!