Homemade Dutch Stamppot: A Comforting Classic Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 kg potatoes, peeled and chopped
  • 1 kg kale, finely chopped
  • 300 g smoked sausage, sliced
  • 200 ml milk
  • 50 g butter
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)

Steps and instructions

  1. Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Allow the potatoes to cook until they are soft, which should take about 15-20 minutes.
  2. While the potatoes are cooking, place the finely chopped kale in a separate pot with a little water, and cook over medium heat until it is wilted and soft. This should take approximately 10 minutes.
  3. In a separate pan, cook the sliced smoked sausage until it is browned and fully cooked. Set this aside for now.
  4. Once the potatoes are cooked, drain the water and return the potatoes to the pot. Add the milk, butter, salt, and pepper. Mash the potatoes until they are smooth.
  5. Add the cooked kale and cooked sausage to the mashed potatoes and stir until everything is well combined. If you're using onions, sauté them until golden and add them into the pot as well.
  6. Adjust the seasoning if necessary. Your stamppot is now ready to serve. Enjoy this hearty Dutch dish!

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Swap the kale for other leafy greens such as spinach or Swiss chard.
  • Replace the smoked sausage with other types of sausage such as beef, chicken, or vegetarian sausage.
  • Add different vegetables to the stamppot such as carrots, peas, or Brussels sprouts.
  • Try using sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a twist on the classic recipe.
  • Add grated cheese such as Gouda or Edam to the mashed potatoes for extra flavor.
  • Experiment with different herbs and spices such as nutmeg, thyme, or paprika to enhance the taste.
  • Make a vegetarian version by omitting the sausage and using vegetable broth instead of water to cook the kale.
  • Create a vegan version by replacing the milk and butter with non-dairy alternatives such as almond milk and vegan butter.
  • For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free sausages and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Recipe overview

Stamppot is a traditional Dutch dish that combines mashed potatoes with kale and smoked sausage. It's a wholesome and hearty meal that's perfect for chilly evenings. This recipe is easy to follow and requires basic cooking skills, making it ideal for beginner cooks or anyone looking for a simple, comforting dish. In this recipe, we'll first boil and mash the potatoes, then cook the kale until it's soft and wilted. We'll also fry up some smoked sausage for a touch of savory goodness. Everything is then mixed together to create a flavorful and filling dish. So, get ready to roll up your sleeves, and let's dive into the process of making delicious Stamppot. Enjoy the fusion of flavors, and happy cooking!

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of sausage?
    Yes, you can use a different type of sausage if you prefer. Traditional Dutch stamppot uses smoked sausage, but you can experiment with other types such as bratwurst or chorizo.
  2. Can I substitute kale with a different vegetable?
    While kale is the traditional vegetable used in stamppot, you can substitute it with other leafy greens such as spinach or collard greens if you prefer.
  3. Can I use a different type of potato?
    Yes, you can use a different type of potato for this recipe. However, it is recommended to use starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold as they mash well and create a creamy texture.
  4. Do I need to peel the potatoes?
    Yes, it is recommended to peel the potatoes before chopping and cooking them.
  5. Is it necessary to sauté the onions?
    Sautéing the onions before adding them to the stamppot enhances their flavor. However, if you prefer a milder onion taste, you can add them directly without sautéing.
  6. Can I make stamppot in advance?
    Yes, you can make stamppot in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little extra milk if needed.
  7. Is stamppot gluten-free?
    The basic stamppot recipe is gluten-free. However, some brands of smoked sausage may contain gluten, so it's important to check the ingredient list if you have gluten sensitivity or intolerance.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Potato peeler - Used to peel the potatoes before chopping them.
  • Chopping board - Provides a sturdy surface for chopping the potatoes and kale.
  • Knife - Essential for chopping the potatoes, kale, and onions (if using).
  • Large pot - Used for boiling the potatoes.
  • Separate pot - Used for cooking the kale.
  • Pan - Used for cooking the smoked sausage.
  • Potato masher - Used to mash the cooked potatoes.
  • Spoon or spatula - Used for stirring and combining the ingredients.
  • Serving dish - Used to present the stamppot when serving.

Origin stories

Stamppot, a traditional Dutch dish, has a robust history dating back to the 17th century. Originally, it was the ultimate utilitarian meal, a way to stretch expensive ingredients like meat by mixing them together with abundant and inexpensive vegetables. Remarkably, the dish gained much of its fame during the harsh winter of 1944-1945, known as the Hongerwinter or Hunger Winter, when food was scarce in the Netherlands during the Second World War. The simplicity and heartiness of stamppot made it a crucial part of the Dutch survival during such a difficult time. Today, it's a celebrated part of the Dutch culinary culture, loved for its comforting, homey flavors and its testament to the resilience of the Dutch people.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.