Southern Stewed Potatoes are a classic comfort food that combines tender potatoes with a creamy, savory sauce. This simple yet satisfying dish is perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or as a hearty side dish. With a few basic ingredients and easy preparation, Southern Stewed Potatoes bring warmth and flavor to any meal. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and learn how to make Southern Stewed Potatoes step-by-step.
Ingredients
- 7 potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 pinch onion flakes (or 1/4 teaspoon onion powder)
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons bacon grease (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Peel and Cube:
- Peel the potatoes and cut them into 1/2-inch cubes.
- Boil Potatoes:
- Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are just tender. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
- Melt Butter:
- In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. If using bacon grease, add it along with the butter for extra flavor.
- Add Onion Flakes:
- Add the onion flakes (or onion powder) to the melted butter and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add Flour:
- Sprinkle the flour over the butter mixture, stirring constantly to form a smooth paste. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Add Liquid:
- Gradually pour in the milk and water, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Combine and Simmer
- Add Potatoes:
- Add the drained potatoes to the skillet with the sauce. Stir gently to coat the potatoes with the sauce.
- Simmer:
- Reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and simmer for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are fully cooked and the flavors are well combined.
Step 4: Serve
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the Southern Stewed Potatoes hot as a comforting side dish. Enjoy this flavorful and creamy dish with your favorite main courses!
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Potatoes: Use starchy potatoes like Russets for a creamier texture. Yukon Golds or Red potatoes can also be used for a slightly different flavor and texture.
- Onion Flakes: If you prefer fresh onion flavor, substitute with 1/4 cup of finely chopped onions instead of onion flakes.
- Bacon Grease: Bacon grease adds a smoky, rich flavor to the dish but is optional. If you don’t have bacon grease, the butter alone will work fine.
Variations
Cheesy Stewed Potatoes
- Add Cheese:
- Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese or any melting cheese to the sauce before adding the potatoes for a cheesy twist.
Herb Stewed Potatoes
- Add Herbs:
- Add 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary to the sauce for added flavor.
Spicy Stewed Potatoes
- Add Heat:
- Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Serving Suggestions
Main Courses
- With Roasted Meats:
- Serve with roasted chicken, beef, or pork for a hearty meal.
- With Grilled Fish:
- Pair with grilled fish or seafood for a lighter option.
Vegetables
- With Green Beans:
- Serve with sautéed or steamed green beans for a balanced plate.
- With Collard Greens:
- Pair with Southern-style collard greens for a traditional combination.
Beverages
- With Sweet Tea:
- Enjoy with a glass of iced sweet tea or lemonade for a classic Southern pairing.
- With White Wine:
- Serve with a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, for a delightful complement.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, Southern Stewed Potatoes can be made ahead of time and reheated gently on the stovetop before serving. The flavors often meld nicely after sitting for a while.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover stewed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
Q: Can I use a different type of milk? A: Yes, you can use half-and-half or heavy cream for a richer sauce, or use a non-dairy milk if you prefer.
Q: Can I add other vegetables? A: Yes, you can add vegetables like carrots, peas, or corn to the dish for added nutrition and flavor.
Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian? A: Yes, omit the bacon grease and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make the dish vegetarian.
Southern Stewed Potatoes are a comforting and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With their tender potatoes and creamy sauce, this dish is sure to be a hit. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, this meal is easy to make and always satisfying. Enjoy making and sharing these delicious Southern Stewed Potatoes with your family and friends!