Kumpir

Story behind the dish

Imagine wandering the bustling streets of Turkey, where the aroma of freshly baked potatoes fills the air, beckoning hungry passersby. Kumpir is more than just a dish; it's a vibrant, customizable street food experience that invites you to indulge in comfort and creativity. Each fluffy potato is generously mashed with butter and cheese, then topped with an array of colorful, flavorful toppings—your personal culinary canvas.

Cooking up a comforting, cheesy, and veggie-packed kumpir at home brings that lively street-food vibe right into your kitchen. It’s perfect for a relaxed dinner or a fun, interactive meal with friends—the kind where everyone can pile on their favorites and create a memorable feast.

Ingredients

• 2 large russet potatoes (about 2 lbs or 900 g)
• 2 tablespoons butter (1 oz or 28 g)
• 5 oz (150 g) cheese, grated
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 1 large red bell pepper, finely chopped
• Pinch of red chili flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Step-by-step

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and dry the potatoes thoroughly. Prick each potato a few times with a fork, then bake directly on the oven rack for about 1 hour, or until they are tender when pierced with a knife.
2. Carefully remove the potatoes from the oven. Let them cool slightly until they are manageable to handle. Slice each open lengthwise, then scoop out the fluffy interior into a large bowl.
3. Add the butter to the warm potato flesh and mash until smooth and creamy. Stir in the grated cheese, mixing well to distribute evenly.
4. In a small skillet, sauté the chopped onion and red pepper until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Mix the sautéed vegetables into the mashed potato, seasoning with salt, pepper, and a pinch of chili flakes for a touch of heat. Adjust the taste as desired.
6. Spoon the cheesy, veggie-stuffed mixture back into the potato shells. Top with additional cheese or toppings of your choice—think sweetcorn, olives, salami, or coleslaw—and serve hot.

Chef’s tips & serving ideas

• Feel free to customize your kumpir with a variety of toppings—be bold and creative! Consider adding sour cream, fresh herbs, or even a drizzle of hot sauce.
• Serve your kumpir with a side of fresh salad or crispy pickles for a well-rounded, hearty meal.

Closing thoughts

Kumpir is a perfect embodiment of comfort food with a lively twist. It’s a dish that invites warmth, personalization, and a sprinkle of fun—whether you’re recreating street-food magic at home or sharing a hearty, cheesy moment with loved ones. So gather your ingredients, unleash your creativity, and enjoy every bite of this crowd-pleasing Turkish classic.