You Should Be Giving Baked Potatoes The Deviled Egg Treatment

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No eggs? No problem! In today's existential shortage of eggs and the health risks posed by the bird flu outbreak, the innovation in plant-based replacements comes through to save the day and pave the way for the future of animal-free food innovation. Here, we present an innovative and delicious plant-based recreation — starring potatoes — that delivers the same familiar flavors without the added cholesterol or public health concerns. For the boiled egg foundation, the swap is simple — just boil your baby gold potatoes to perfection. Placing the potatoes in cold water before boiling ensures even cooking, while a small amount of vinegar in the boiling water prevents the potatoes from getting mushy. Boiling the potatoes before baking can shorten the baking time and make the interior soft, while the potato skin crisps up nicely to provide a unique textural contrast to the dish.

Carefully hollow out the potatoes to create a sturdy shell, creating the perfect vessel for the creamy, tangy filling of mayonnaise, mustard, and vinegar, along with your favorite toppings. To make the recipe vegan-friendly, opt for store-bought vegan mayonnaise, or save the leftover chickpea water from a can of chickpeas (aquafaba) and make your own plant-based mayo at home with ease. A sprinkle of smoked paprika and chopped chives add that classic touch of elegance and pop of color. Bake your filled deviled potatoes at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15 minutes, and you're ready to serve a plant-based iteration of a classic finger food.

The humble potato renders itself to a delectable bite suitable for any occasion with just a few creative tweaks. With different iterations of deviled potatoes, you have the perfect chameleon appetizer that can effortlessly transition from casual gatherings to elegant soirées, while showcasing the true potential of plant-forward cuisine.

For a laid-back backyard barbecue or potluck, embrace simple toppings that highlight comfort and familiarity. You can still take it up a notch beyond chopped green onions and sour cream. Crushed potato chips or simulated bacon bits offer an addictive crunch, pickled jalapeños and roasted corn kernels provide a southwestern flair, a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning, crispy fried onions and garlic, or fresh herbs impart nuanced flavors, and a drizzle of barbecue sauce or buffalo sauce are great for a sweet or zesty zing. When the occasion calls for elegance, transform these quick-bite wonders into sophisticated hors d'oeuvres. For the filling, perhaps a French onion soup-inspired filling with a melty cheese topping, or even an Indian-inspired tikka masala filling topped with chopped cilantro and cucumber for a cooling contrast. A light dusting of saffron powder or a tiny sprig of fresh microgreens adds an appealing visual component to the platter. Garnish with delicate truffle shavings, a drizzle of flavor-infused oils, or tiny edible flowers. 

Deviled potatoes are more than just a replacement for deviled eggs — they're a celebration of creativity in the kitchen. They're incredibly versatile and perfect for everything from casual game day spreads to more refined dinner parties, proving that plant-forward dining never means compromising on flavor or fun. So, the next time you're looking to elevate your appetizer game or try something new, remember: Potatoes deserve the deviled treatment too. Let this clever, cholesterol-free, animal-friendly reinvention of the classic hors d'oeuvres inspire you to explore the wonders of the plant kingdom.