Stoemp with Leeks and Carrots
A comforting and rustic Belgian mashed potato dish, 'Stoemp' is prepared by mashing potatoes with finely cooked vegetables. This version features tender leeks and sweet carrots, creating a flavorful and wholesome side dish or light meal.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Starchy Potatoes(such as Russet or Yukon Gold, peeled and cubed)
- 300 g Carrots(peeled and chopped)
- 200 g Leeks(washed and thinly sliced (white and light green parts))
- 2 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 50 g Unsalted Butter
- 200 ml Whole Milk(warmed)
- 100 ml Heavy Cream
- Salt(to taste)
- Black Pepper(freshly ground, to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Nutmeg(optional, but traditional)
- 1 tbsp Dijon Mustard(optional, for extra depth)
- Fresh Parsley(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the cubed potatoes and cook for about 10 minutes until they begin to soften.
⏱️ 10 minutes💡 Tip: Using starchy potatoes will result in a creamier mash. - 2
Add the chopped carrots to the boiling potatoes and continue cooking for another 8–10 minutes, until both vegetables are tender but not falling apart.
⏱️ 8-10 minutes - 3
While the potatoes and carrots are cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a separate pan over medium heat. Add the sliced leeks and minced garlic, sautéing gently for 5–7 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
⏱️ 5-7 minutes💡 Tip: Ensure the leeks are thoroughly washed to remove any grit. - 4
Drain the cooked potatoes and carrots well. Return them to the pot.
💡 Tip: Draining thoroughly is key to avoiding a watery stoemp. - 5
Add the sautéed leek and garlic mixture to the pot with the potatoes and carrots. Add the remaining butter, warmed milk, and heavy cream.
💡 Tip: Warming the milk and cream helps them incorporate more smoothly. - 6
Mash everything together until the consistency is smooth yet slightly chunky. Stoemp should have some texture. Season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Stir in Dijon mustard if desired.
💡 Tip: You can use a potato masher, ricer, or even a fork for mashing. - 7
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If the stoemp is too thick, add a splash more warm milk.
💡 Tip: The consistency should be creamy but not runny. - 8
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Traditionally, Stoemp is paired with grilled sausages, bacon, or meatballs.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a variation, you can add other vegetables like shredded cabbage or kale.
- ✓If you prefer a smoother consistency, you can use an immersion blender or food processor, but be careful not to over-process.
- ✓Stoemp is excellent as a side dish or as a light vegetarian main course.
🔄 Variations
- Add cooked bacon or pancetta to the mash for extra flavor.
- Incorporate other root vegetables like parsnips or turnips.
- A pinch of cayenne pepper can add a subtle warmth.