Growing up, I always looked forward to my Dutch grandma’s stamppot. The rich, creamy mash of potatoes and kale, topped with crispy fried onions and savory gravy, was a true comfort food delight. It’s a dish that transports me back to childhood, sitting around her kitchen table, the aroma of simmering potatoes and caramelized onions filling the air.
Stamppot, the beloved Dutch national dish, has a way of bringing people together. It’s a simple, hearty meal that’s been a staple in Dutch households for generations. And this recipe I’m about to share with you? It’s the real deal – an authentic taste of the Netherlands that’s sure to become a new family favorite.
Table of Contents
Why This Stamppot (Dutch National Dish) Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Stamppot (Dutch National Dish)
What sets this stamppot recipe apart is the attention to detail and the perfect balance of flavors. By starting with high-quality Russet potatoes and combining them with tender kale, sweet onions, and a generous helping of butter and milk, you create a mash that’s both creamy and comforting. The addition of crispy fried onions and a rich, savory gravy takes the dish to the next level, making it a true delight for the senses.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- 3 pounds Russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes: These starchy, fluffy potatoes are the foundation of a perfect stamppot, providing the creamy, comforting base.
- 1 bunch kale, stems removed and leaves chopped: The earthy, nutrient-rich kale adds a delightful texture and flavor contrast to the potatoes.
- 1 large onion, diced: Caramelized onions lend a sweet, aromatic depth to the dish.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Butter is the secret to achieving a rich, velvety mash.
- 1 cup whole milk: The milk adds creaminess and helps to bind the ingredients together.
- 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper: These simple seasonings enhance the natural flavors of the dish.
- 1/4 cup crispy fried onions: The crispy fried onions provide a delightful crunch and add a touch of umami.
- 1 cup gravy (store-bought or homemade): The savory gravy ties everything together, making this stamppot irresistible.
Step-by-Step Stamppot (Dutch National Dish) Instructions
Preparing Your Stamppot (Dutch National Dish)
With a total preparation and cooking time of just 45 minutes, this stamppot recipe is a quick and easy weeknight meal. All you’ll need is a large pot, a masher or ricer, and a skillet for the crispy fried onions.
1- Begin by peeling and cubing the Russet potatoes into 1-inch pieces. This uniform size will ensure even cooking.
2- In a large pot, cover the potato cubes with cold water and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat to medium and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
3- While the potatoes are cooking, sauté the diced onion in a skillet with 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the onions are translucent and lightly caramelized, about 10 minutes.
4- Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, the whole milk, salt, and pepper. Mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy.
5- Fold in the chopped kale and the sautéed onions, stirring to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6- Transfer the stamppot to a serving dish and top with the crispy fried onions and a drizzle of gravy. Serve hot and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success
- For the creamiest, most flavorful stamppot, use high-quality Russet potatoes. Their starchy, fluffy texture is essential.
- Don’t overcook the potatoes – you want them to be tender but still hold their shape when mashed.
- Sautéing the onions until they’re caramelized brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth of flavor.
- Folding in the kale at the end ensures it retains its texture and vibrant color.
Serving and Storing Your Stamppot (Dutch National Dish)
Perfect Pairings for Stamppot (Dutch National Dish)
This hearty stamppot dish, which serves 6 people, pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. Consider serving it with a side of sautéed sausages or roasted pork for a classic Dutch meal. A fresh, crisp salad or steamed Brussels sprouts would also make an excellent pairing. And don’t forget to offer a cold beer or a glass of full-bodied red wine to complete the experience.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Stamppot is the perfect dish to make in advance, as it reheats beautifully. Once cooled, you can store the mash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to loosen the texture if needed.
For longer-term storage, the stamppot can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as desired.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Stamppot (Dutch National Dish)
Creative Stamppot (Dutch National Dish) Variations
While the classic combination of potatoes, kale, and onions is hard to beat, you can get creative with different vegetable combinations. Try swapping out the kale for spinach, cabbage, or even roasted root vegetables like carrots and parsnips. You can also experiment with the addition of crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, or a sprinkling of nutmeg for extra flavor.
Making Stamppot (Dutch National Dish) Diet-Friendly
To make this recipe more diet-friendly, you can easily swap out the whole milk for unsweetened almond or oat milk. For a gluten-free version, simply use a gluten-free gravy or omit it altogether. For a vegan stamppot, replace the butter with a plant-based alternative and skip the gravy, topping it instead with a flavorful cashew or almond-based sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I substitute the Russet potatoes with another type?
A: While Russet potatoes are the traditional choice for stamppot, you can use other starchy varieties like Yukon Gold or even sweet potatoes. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
Q: How long does it take to prepare and cook this stamppot recipe?
A: The total time for this recipe is 45 minutes, with 15 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking time.
Q: Can I make the stamppot ahead of time?
A: Yes, stamppot is a great make-ahead dish. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Q: How much does this recipe serve?
A: This stamppot recipe serves 6 people.
Q: What should I do if my stamppot turns out too thick or dry?
A: If your stamppot is too thick, simply add a bit more milk, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency. If it’s too dry, you can stir in a bit more butter to add creaminess.
Stamppot (Dutch National Dish)
- Total Time: 45
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Discover the ultimate comfort food with this authentic recipe for Stamppot, the beloved Dutch national dish. This hearty, creamy mash-up of potatoes, kale, and onions is sure to warm your soul and delight your taste buds.
Ingredients
– 3 pounds Russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 bunch kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
– 1 large onion, diced
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1/4 cup crispy fried onions
– 1 cup gravy (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
1. In a large pot, cover the cubed potatoes with cold water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the chopped kale, diced onion, butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Mash the ingredients together using a potato masher or ricer until well combined and creamy.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Serve the Stamppot warm, garnished with the crispy fried onions and a drizzle of gravy.
Notes
For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream to the mash. Experiment with different greens like spinach or Swiss chard in place of the kale.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Dutch
Conclusion
Stamppot, the beloved Dutch national dish, is a true comfort food masterpiece. This recipe captures the essence of the classic dish, with its creamy, buttery mash, tender kale, and crispy fried onions. Whether you’re looking to reconnect with your Dutch roots or simply discover a new, hearty meal, I can’t wait for you to try this stamppot. So gather your loved ones, fire up the stove, and get ready to experience the cozy, satisfying flavors of this Dutch delight. Don’t forget to let me know how it turns out in the comments below!
