Discover how to make Kugelis, a traditional Lithuanian potato pudding that's perfect for any meal. This comforting dish combines grated potatoes, savory onions, and crispy bacon into a delicious casserole that's sure to satisfy. Follow our easy recipe to create a flavorful Kugelis that's ideal for family dinners or special gatherings.

Ingredients:

- 6 large potatoes, peeled and grated

- 1 large onion, finely chopped

- 4 strips of bacon, diced

- 3 large eggs

- 1 cup milk

- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

- 1 teaspoon salt

- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)

- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted butter

Instructions:

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with vegetable oil or melted butter.

Prepare Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside. Reserve about 2 tablespoons of bacon fat.

Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the grated potatoes, chopped onion, and cooked bacon. 

Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).

Combine Mixtures: Pour the egg mixture over the potato mixture and stir until well combined.

Bake: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Drizzle the reserved bacon fat over the top.

Cook: Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the pudding is set in the middle.

Serve: Let the Kugelis cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it as a hearty side dish or a main course with a side of sour cream or applesauce.

This Kugelis recipe is a delicious way to enjoy a classic Lithuanian dish that's both comforting and flavorful!

Nutritional Values

Potatoes

 - Calories: 77

 - Carbohydrates: 17.6g

 - Protein: 2.0g

 - Fat: 0.1g

 - Fiber: 2.2g

Benefits:

 - Rich in vitamins B6 and C, potassium, and antioxidants.

 - Good for digestion due to fiber content.

 - Provides energy and supports heart health.

Onions

 - Calories: 40

 - Carbohydrates: 9.3g

 - Protein: 1.1g

 - Fat: 0.1g

 - Fiber: 1.7g

Benefits:

 - High in antioxidants and vitamins C and B6.

 - Supports immune function and heart health.

 - Contains compounds that may help reduce inflammation.

Bacon

 - Calories: 42

 - Carbohydrates: 0.1g

 - Protein: 9.0g

 - Fat: 12.0g

 - Sodium: 1,700mg

Benefits:

 - Provides protein and essential fatty acids.

 - Adds flavor and richness to dishes.

 - Moderation is key due to high sodium and fat content.

Eggs

 - Calories: 72

 - Carbohydrates: 0.6g

 - Protein: 6.3g

 - Fat: 4.8g

 - Cholesterol: 186mg

Benefits:

 - Excellent source of high-quality protein and essential amino acids.

 - Rich in vitamins B12, D, and choline.

 - Supports muscle health and brain function.

Milk

 - Calories: 42

 - Carbohydrates: 5.0g

 - Protein: 3.4g

 - Fat: 1.0g

 - Calcium: 120mg

Benefits:

 - Good source of calcium and vitamin D for bone health.

 - Provides protein and essential vitamins.

 - Supports muscle function and overall health.

All-Purpose Flour

 - Calories: 364

 - Carbohydrates: 76.3g

 - Protein: 10.3g

 - Fat: 0.98g

 - Fiber: 2.7g

Benefits:

 - Provides carbohydrates for energy.

 - Fortified with nutrients like iron and B vitamins.

 - Used as a binding agent in recipes.

Baking Powder

 - Calories: 0

 - Carbohydrates: 1.3g

 - Protein: 0g

 - Fat: 0g

Benefits:

 - Helps leaven baked goods, making them light and fluffy.

 - Contains sodium, which helps with baking chemistry.

Salt

 - Calories: 0

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Protein: 0g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Sodium: 2,325mg

Benefits:

 - Enhances flavor of food.

 - Essential for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function.

 - Use in moderation to avoid excessive sodium intake.

Black Pepper

 - Calories: 6

 - Carbohydrates: 1.5g

 - Protein: 0.2g

 - Fat: 0.1g

 - Fiber: 0.6g

Benefits:

 - Contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.

 - Enhances flavor and aids in digestion.

 - May improve nutrient absorption.

Nutmeg (optional)

 - Calories: 12

 - Carbohydrates: 1.5g

 - Protein: 0.2g

 - Fat: 0.8g

 - Fiber: 0.6g

Benefits:

 - Provides antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.

 - Adds a warm, aromatic flavor to dishes.

 - May help with digestion and sleep.

This combination of ingredients not only makes Kugelis a delicious and hearty dish but also provides various nutritional benefits to support overall health.