She Strengthens

Summer BBQ Showstopper: Heaven and Earth Mashed Potatoes

When it comes to outdoor gatherings, a delicious side dish can make all the difference. This summer, why not wow your friends and family with a traditional German recipe that’s both easy to make and utterly scrumptious? Introducing “Himmel und Erde” – or Heaven and Earth – a mouthwatering mashup of potatoes and apples that’s sure to become a new favorite.

A Family Heirloom Recipe

This recipe has been passed down through generations, and its rich history is evident in every bite. My grandmother used to lovingly prepare this dish for special occasions, and now I’m excited to share it with you. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll be enjoying this heavenly side dish in no time.

What You’ll Need

• 2 lbs potatoes, cut into 1/2 inch cubes
• 2 tbs caraway seeds
• 1 1/2 lbs apple (your favorite crisp, crunchy variety), cut into 1/2 inch cubes
• 1 tbs sugar (or honey, for a touch of sweetness)
• 2 tbs butter
• Bacon, cut into 1cm bits and fried until crispy
• 1/4 cup scalded milk (boiled until frothy – be careful, it happens fast!)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Let’s Get Cooking!

To begin, place the potatoes and caraway seeds into cold, salted water. Bring to a boil, then set a timer for 10 minutes. When the timer goes off, add the apples to the pot and continue cooking until they’re tender. While the potatoes and apples are cooking, fry the bacon until crispy and heat up the milk with butter until melted. Once the potatoes are cooked, drain and let them dry for a few minutes. Return them to the pot, add the hot milk mixture, sugar, and crispy bacon bits, and mash until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot.

Tips and Variations

• For an extra burst of flavor, try using different types of apples or adding a sprinkle of cinnamon to the potatoes.
• If you’re short on time, you can prepare the potatoes and apples ahead of time and reheat them when you’re ready to serve.
• Experiment with different types of milk or cream to change up the flavor and texture of the dish.

With its perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, Heaven and Earth mashed potatoes are sure to be a hit at your next summer BBQ. So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and taste the tradition for yourself!