Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 2 lbs apples, peeled and chopped
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1 cup grated Gouda cheese
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Large skillet
- Baking dish
- Cheese grater
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot, boil potatoes until tender. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and cook until softened.
4. Add apples to the skillet and cook until softened, stirring occasionally.
5. Add salt, black pepper, and nutmeg to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Add the cooked potatoes to the skillet and mash with a potato masher until smooth.
7. Add milk and heavy cream to the skillet and stir to combine.
8. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle grated Gouda cheese on top.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Serve hot.
- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 375°F (190°C)
Serving size:
- 6 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 10g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of Gouda cheese, you can use Cheddar, Swiss, or any other type of cheese you prefer.
- You can use any type of apple you like, but Granny Smith apples work well in this recipe.
Variations:
- You can add cooked bacon or sausage to the skillet for a meatier version of this dish.
- You can add chopped herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to the skillet for extra flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to chop the potatoes and apples into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly.
- You can make this dish ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
- If you want a creamier texture, you can add more milk and cream to the skillet.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat, place the leftovers in a baking dish and bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the Himmel und Erde Gratin in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color.
Pairings:
- This dish pairs well with roasted chicken or pork chops.
- A crisp green salad would be a nice side dish.
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or carrots, would be a nice side dish.
- A crusty bread would be great for soaking up any extra sauce.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the mixture seems too dry, you can add more milk or cream to the skillet.
- If the cheese is not melting, you can broil the dish for a few minutes to help it melt.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the potatoes and apples thoroughly to avoid any foodborne illness.
Food history:
- Himmel und Erde Gratin is a traditional German dish that translates to "Heaven and Earth." It gets its name from the combination of potatoes (earth) and apples (heaven).
Flavor profiles:
- This dish has a creamy and savory flavor with a hint of sweetness from the apples.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the Himmel und Erde Gratin as a main dish with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
- You can also serve it as a side dish with roasted chicken or pork chops.
Related Categories
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Region: German
Taste: Savory, Rich, Comforting, Earthy, Tangy