Heavenly Earth Apple-Potato Medley
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Himmel und Erde, a traditional German dish that beautifully marries the earthy richness of potatoes with the tart sweetness of apples. This versatile accompaniment pairs perfectly with a variety of sausages or roasted pork dishes, making every meal extraordinary. The combination of crispy bacon and caramelized onions adds an irresistible savory crunch, while the hint of nutmeg elevates this dish to new heights. Prepare to be pleasantly surprised by how well these flavors come together, creating a comforting dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
N/A
Servings
130
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Potatoes
4 (medium, cut into 1 inch cubes)
Tart Apples
2 (large, sliced (Granny Smiths recommended))
Sugar
1 (tablespoon)
Bacon
4 (slices, cut into 1 inch pieces)
Onion
1 (medium, sliced)
Butter
1 (tablespoon, softened)
Nutmeg
1/8 (teaspoon)
Salt and Pepper
to taste (added at serving)
Instructions
1
In a large pot, bring 1 inch of water to a boil. Add the cubed potatoes, sliced apples, and sugar. Cover, reduce the heat, and simmer until the potatoes and apples are tender, about 10 to 15 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
2
While the potatoes and apples are cooking, in a large skillet over medium heat, fry the bacon pieces until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and drain on paper towels. In the remaining bacon fat, add the sliced onion and sauté until soft and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3
In a serving bowl, combine the cooked potatoes and apples. Dot with softened butter, season with salt and pepper to taste, and sprinkle with nutmeg. Gently toss to combine flavors.
4
Sprinkle the crispy bacon and caramelized onions on top and serve immediately. For added richness and texture, you can pan-fry the potato and apple mixture in a bit of oil until golden and crispy before serving.
Nutrition Information
7g
Fat
15g
Carbs
3g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Heavenly Earth Apple-Potato Medley?
Heavenly Earth Apple-Potato Medley, also known as Himmel und Erde, is a traditional German dish that combines potatoes and apples with savory bacon and onions.
What does the name Himmel und Erde mean?
The name translates to Heaven and Earth, where the apples represent heaven (the trees) and the potatoes represent earth (the ground).
What are the main ingredients in this dish?
The primary ingredients are potatoes, tart apples, sugar, bacon, onion, butter, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
What kind of apples should I use?
Tart apples like Granny Smiths are highly recommended for this recipe to balance the savory elements.
How long does it take to cook the potatoes and apples?
The potatoes and apples should be simmered in water for about 10 to 15 minutes until they are tender.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can make it vegetarian by omitting the bacon and sautéing the onions in olive oil or extra butter instead.
How many calories are in a serving?
There are approximately 130 calories per serving of this medley.
What is the best way to serve this medley?
It is best served immediately in a bowl, topped with crispy bacon and caramelized onions, alongside sausages or roasted pork.
What is the fat content of this recipe?
The dish contains approximately 7g of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in this dish?
Each serving contains about 15g of carbohydrates.
How much protein does it provide?
This dish provides 3g of protein per serving.
How do I prepare the onions for this recipe?
Slice a medium onion and sauté it in the remaining bacon fat until it becomes soft and lightly browned.
What spice gives this dish its traditional flavor?
A hint of nutmeg is used to elevate the flavors and provide a traditional German taste profile.
Can I make the texture crispier?
Yes, you can pan-fry the potato and apple mixture in a bit of oil until golden and crispy before adding the toppings.
Is there sugar in this recipe?
Yes, one tablespoon of sugar is added during the boiling process to enhance the sweetness of the apples.
How should I cut the potatoes?
The potatoes should be cut into 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
How should I prepare the bacon?
Cut the bacon into 1-inch pieces and fry them in a skillet until they are crispy.
What type of dish is this categorized as?
It is traditionally served as a savory side dish or a comfort food accompaniment.
Can I use different types of potatoes?
Yes, though the recipe calls for four medium potatoes, most boiling or all-purpose potatoes will work well.
How much nutmeg is required?
The recipe calls for 1/8 teaspoon of nutmeg.
Do I need to drain the potatoes and apples after boiling?
Yes, you should drain them well after they become tender and before mixing with other ingredients.
What is the suggested serving size for the bacon?
The recipe uses 4 slices of bacon cut into 1-inch pieces.
Can I use butter instead of bacon fat for the onions?
Yes, if you prefer or are making a vegetarian version, butter is a suitable substitute for sautéing the onions.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Based on the listed ingredients, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
How many apples are needed?
The recipe requires 2 large tart apples.
What is the role of the butter in the final step?
One tablespoon of softened butter is dotted onto the hot potatoes and apples to add richness and help combine flavors.
Should the apples be sliced or cubed?
The recipe recommends slicing the apples.
Is this recipe easy for beginners?
Yes, with only 8 ingredients and a simple boiling and frying process, it is very beginner-friendly.
Can I add more salt and pepper?
Yes, salt and pepper should be added to taste during the final tossing of the ingredients.
What makes this a comfort food?
The combination of soft potatoes, sweet apples, and salty, crunchy bacon creates a satisfying and warm flavor profile.