Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Crispy Potato Tian with Sautéed Mustard Greens?
It is a layered dish featuring roasted white potatoes over seasoned Chinese mustard greens, inspired by the healthy cooking site Three Tastes.
What kind of potatoes are best for this recipe?
The recipe specifically calls for 2 to 3 white potatoes sliced into 1/4-inch rounds.
What are the primary greens used in this dish?
Chinese mustard greens, also known as gai choy, are used as the base for the tian.
How do I prepare the mustard greens?
Thoroughly wash the greens, julienne the thick stems, and finely shred the leaves to yield 8-10 cups.
What oven temperature is required?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C).
How thick should the potato slices be?
Potatoes should be sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds for even cooking.
How much olive oil is needed in total?
A total of 4 tablespoons of olive oil is used: 2 for tossing the potatoes and 2 for the casserole base.
What type of broth should be used?
You can use 1 cup of either vegetable broth or chicken broth.
Can I substitute the mustard greens?
Yes, you can use other sturdy greens such as kale or endives as alternatives.
How many garlic cloves are needed?
The recipe requires 5 garlic cloves, peeled and sliced.
How should I layer the ingredients in the casserole dish?
Place julienned stems at the bottom, followed by shredded leaves, garlic, broth, and oil, then top with overlapping potatoes.
How long does the tian need to bake?
Bake the dish for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy.
Is there an optional topping for this dish?
During the last 10 minutes of baking, you can add grated parmesan cheese or lightly buttered breadcrumbs.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, as long as you use vegetable broth, this dish is completely vegetarian.
Is this potato tian gluten-free?
The base recipe is gluten-free, provided you do not use the optional breadcrumb topping.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
What is the weight of the mustard greens needed?
You will need approximately 2 lbs of mustard greens.
Why should I toss the potatoes in oil before layering?
Tossing the slices in oil helps prevent browning and ensures they become crispy during roasting.
How do I arrange the potatoes on top of the greens?
Arrange them in overlapping circles or rows and press down gently to ensure contact with the greens.
Can I add heat to this recipe?
Yes, you can add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the greens for a spicy kick.
What seasonings are used for the potatoes?
Season the potato slices with salt and pepper to taste before layering.
What should I do after taking the dish out of the oven?
Let the tian rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Where do the stems of the mustard greens go?
The julienned stems should be placed at the very bottom of the casserole dish.
What are the characteristics of Chinese gai choy?
It has a vibrant, slightly peppery taste that complements the earthy potatoes.
How do I know when the dish is finished cooking?
The dish is done when the potatoes are golden brown and have a crispy texture.
Is this considered a side dish or a main?
It can serve as either a star main course or a superb side dish.
How much parmesan cheese is recommended as a topping?
The recipe suggests 4 tablespoons of grated parmesan cheese if you choose to use it.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, use vegetable broth and omit the optional parmesan cheese to make it vegan.
What type of baking dish is best?
An oven-safe casserole dish is required for this recipe.
What is the texture of the finished potatoes?
The top layer of potatoes becomes thin and crispy while the bottom layers soften in the broth.