Ahh comfort food… Some foods are just so reminiscent of childhood and family and happy times. These Foil Packet Potatoes are a snapshot of a wonderful memory from camping trips with my family.
Let me set the scene for you… Every year when I was a kid, my family would take a fall long weekend cabin trip. We went to different state parks and brought all our own food so we could cook on the grill and fire. We hiked, swam, boated, played cards, took naps, and relished in the crisp, Ohio fall air.
Somewhere deep in the back of my mind, I have a memory that lulls me into relaxation and transports me to a place of tranquility…
I was 6 or 7 and we took a boat out to a tiny island in the middle of the park’s lake. As my dad hoisted the tiny vessel onto the beach, we began to explore the island. We happened upon a meadow with thigh-tall grass and a circle of sunshine breaking through the woods. We all laid down on our backs and held hands in the swaying grass. It was peaceful and quiet and warm and happy. Pure serenity….
Thanks for indulging my long story. Ready to know what it has to do with today’s recipe?! We used to make these potatoes every year when we went camping! They’re so fun because they can be done on the grill, in hot coals from a fire, or in the oven if you’re at home!
A lot of people associate comfort foods with heavy, guilt-inducing indulgences, but, my loves, it doesn’t have to be so! White potatoes have a bad rap but when treated right, they can pack a nutritional punch! In their natural [non-fried or processed] state, potatoes are relatively low in calories, contain 5 grams of fiber, and contain a compound known as alpha-lipoic acid, which helps the body to convert glucose into energy [source].
Who knew?! Potatoes aren’t all bad folks!!
So slap these packets on the grill, nestle them in some hot coals, or pop them in the oven for my favorite comfort food! The crispy browned bits combined with the juicy, sweet onions will comfort your soul without busting you waistline!
Foil Packet Potatoes can be made on the grill, with a fire, or in the oven! This comfort food-gone-healthy is great for late summer and fall nights!
Ingredients
- 1 pound new potatoes (I used red skinned)
- ½ yellow onion
- 1 Tbs. olive oil
- ¼ tsp. garlic powder
- ½ tsp. salt and pepper
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (optional)
Instructions
- Slice the potatoes and onions into thin (¼“) slices and place in a bowl or bag.
- Add the olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper and toss or shake well to be sure every slice is coated.
- Tear off 3 pieces of heavy duty foil, about 18” long and spray each with non-stick spray or rub with oil. Divide the potato mixture between the sheets.
- Fold up the long sides of the foil, place them together, and fold them over together until flat against the filling. Then fold up the sides a few times, pressing tightly to seal.
- To cook, place the packets folded side down on medium grill for 7-8 minutes. Flip and cook 7-8 minutes more. Alternatively, you could place them in hot coals or a 425F oven for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway. Check carefully, if you would like a little more brown, fold well and put them back on for up to 10 minutes more.
