Zharenka with Apples and Cinnamon
A comforting and sweet Belarusian dish featuring pan-fried apples and potatoes, seasoned with cinnamon, often served as a dessert or a sweet side.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Servings4
DifficultyEasy
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Potatoes(peeled and cut into small cubes)
- 3 medium Apples(cored and cut into cubes)
- 50 g Butter
- 2 tbsp Sugar(or to taste)
- 1 tsp Cinnamon
- 0.5 tsp Vanilla extract
- 1 pinch Salt
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the cubed potatoes and a pinch of salt. Fry, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender and golden brown.
💡 Tip: Ensure potatoes are dry before adding to the pan to achieve a good crisp. - 2
Add the cubed apples to the skillet with the potatoes. Continue to cook, stirring gently, until the apples are softened but not mushy.
- 3
Sprinkle the sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract over the apple and potato mixture. Stir to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sugar to caramelize slightly.
- 4
Taste and adjust sweetness or cinnamon as needed. Serve hot.
💡 Tip: This dish can be served as a sweet side, a light dessert, or even as a breakfast item.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use firm apples like Gala, Fuji, or Honeycrisp that hold their shape when cooked.
- ✓For a richer flavor, a touch of nutmeg can be added along with the cinnamon.
🔄 Variations
- Add a handful of raisins or dried cranberries for extra texture and flavor.
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.