Stamppot

Story behind the dish

Imagine rustic kitchens in the Netherlands, where hearty dishes like stamppot have been enjoyed for generations as comfort food made from simple, locally available ingredients. This dish is more than just mashed potatoes—it's a celebration of savory greens, smoky sausage, and silky goodness that warms the soul on chilly days. Easy to prepare and deeply satisfying, stamppot is a beloved staple that brings family and friends around the table for a taste of tradition.

Ingredients

• 3 lbs (1.5 kg) potatoes
• 2 leaves bay leaf
• 2 shallots
• 3 tbsp butter
• 1.65 lbs (750 g) kale
• 2 sausages
• 2 cups (16 fl oz / 500 ml) milk
• Grated nutmeg (to taste)
• Pinch of salt
• Pinch of pepper

Step-by-step

1. Wash and peel the potatoes, then cut them into evenly-sized pieces to ensure uniform cooking.
2. In a large soup pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the potatoes and bay leaves, and cook for about 20 minutes until tender. Remove and discard the bay leaves.
3. If using fresh curly kale, wash thoroughly under cool running water to remove any soil. Trim coarse stems and discard brown or damaged leaves. Cut the kale into thin strips.
4. Peel and chop the shallots.
5. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the shallots for a few minutes until fragrant.
6. Add the prepared kale and 2 tablespoons of water to the skillet. Season lightly with salt and pepper, then cook for about 10 minutes until the kale is tender.
7. Meanwhile, warm the milk on the stove or in the microwave until hot.
8. Drain the cooked potatoes, then shake off excess moisture and dry with a clean towel. Mash the potatoes using a potato masher or ricer until smooth.
9. Working quickly, stir in the warm milk and the remaining tablespoon of butter. Season generously with grated nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste.
10. Fold the cooked kale mixture into the mashed potatoes until well combined.
11. Slice the smoked sausages and serve on top of the stamppot. For added flavor, offer mustard or gravy on the side.

Chef’s tips & serving ideas

• For a vegetarian twist, skip the sausages and top your stamppot with sautéed mushrooms or a hearty veggie sausage.
• Serve with crusty bread and a sharp mustard or rich gravy for a complete, comforting meal.

Closing thoughts

There’s something truly heartwarming about a dish like stamppot — a humble yet flavorful celebration of simple ingredients transformed through technique and care. Perfect for cozy evenings or weekend family dinners, this dish invites you to savor tradition, warmth, and the joy of sharing good food with loved ones. Gather around, dish up, and enjoy every comforting bite.