Vijfschaft
Mixed Vegetable Dish
Vijfschaft is a traditional Dutch dish, often described as a hearty worker's meal, whose name loosely translates to 'five provisions.' While the exact origin and regional impact are somewhat elusive, it's characterized by a combination of five core ingredients: potatoes, carrots, onions, beans, and apples. These are typically boiled or a combination of boiled and fried, then mashed or served whole, often with a mustard sauce or a dollop of butter. It's a versatile dish that can be adapted based on available winter produce, making it a sustainable and comforting part of Dutch culinary heritage.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Potatoes(peeled and quartered)
- 250 g Carrots(peeled and sliced)
- 200 g Brown beans (canned or pre-cooked)(rinsed and drained)
- 1 large Onion(finely chopped)
- 1 large Apple(cored and diced)
- 2 tbsp Butter
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 1-2 tbsp Mustard (for sauce, optional)
- as needed Cooking water or vegetable broth
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Place the peeled and quartered potatoes and sliced carrots in a large pot. Cover with water or vegetable broth, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until tender.
- 2
While the potatoes and carrots are cooking, melt the butter in a separate skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- 3
Add the diced apple to the skillet with the onions and cook for another 5 minutes, until the apple is slightly softened.
- 4
Once the potatoes and carrots are tender, drain most of the cooking water, reserving about 1/2 cup. Add the drained potatoes and carrots to a large bowl. Add the rinsed brown beans, and the sautéed onion and apple mixture.
- 5
Gently mash the ingredients together with a fork or potato masher, or leave them mostly whole for a chunkier texture. Add a splash of the reserved cooking water or broth if needed to reach your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- 6
For an optional mustard sauce: In a small saucepan, heat a tablespoon or two of the reserved cooking liquid. Whisk in 1-2 tablespoons of mustard until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- 7
Serve the Vijfschaft warm, either as is, or with the mustard sauce drizzled over the top. It can also be served with a dollop of butter or mayonnaise.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓You can use other root vegetables like parsnips or rutabaga.
- ✓For a heartier meal, add some cooked smoked sausage (rookworst) or bacon bits.
- ✓This dish is also delicious served cold the next day, chopped and mixed with mayonnaise, similar to a potato salad.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Some traditional recipes suggest mashing the ingredients more thoroughly to create a stamppot-like consistency.
- You can add a pinch of nutmeg or other warming spices for extra flavor.