Most of my recent posts have been about nice people that I’ve met over the last 4 years. I’ve felt the need to share how these people have influenced me. I guess I’m just getting soppy as I know I’m leaving Spain in 3 weeks time and there are a lot of people that I’m going to miss a great deal. Last night we invited David, Alberto and Paola over for dinner. I met both David and Alberto due to the Mongol Rally, and have remained friends while helping them prepare and watching them take part. Yet more people I’ll miss…

And here, especially for Paola, is the recipe for last nights dinner.

Mushroom and Potato Pie
(Serves 6)

for the mashed potato (puree)

• 2kg of potatoes
• 50g of butter
• 200ml of hot milk
• 3 eggs (beaten)
• 75g of Parmesan cheese

for the filling

• 400g of mushrooms
• 50g of butter
• 3 cloves of garlic
• Serrano ham
• Parsley
• 200g of Gruyere (or similar melting cheese)

1. Pre-heat the oven to 190 degrees C.

2. Peel and boil the potatoes for 15 to 20 minutes. Drain the potatoes and add the hot milk, butter and 2/3rds of the grated Parmesan. Mash together.

3. While the potatoes are boiling, fry the sliced mushrooms in with the butter, chopped garlic and parsley. Add the Serrano ham for the last few minutes.

4. Spread 1/3rd of the mashed potato along the a reasonably deep baking tray. Place the cubed Gruyere cheese out on top of the mashed potato, then poor in the mushrooms and cooking juices. Spread the remaining mashed potato over the mushrooms and cheese, covering them up completely. Finally, sprinkle the remaining Parmesan over the top.

5. Bake in the oven for 30 minutes.

6. Serve and enjoy.

Paola, let me know if you need translations for any of the above.

Mum, hi!