Stewed Potatoes

Unless you’re from the Southern half of the United States, you may not be familiar with stewed potatoes. This hearty side dish is Southern comfort food at its most basic—simple, flavorful and rooted in tradition.

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Much of what we consider traditional Southern dishes, like collard greens, grits or black-eyed peas, were born out of necessity in the post-American Civil War era. After the war, the South faced widespread economic hardship and food scarcity. Families were forced to become resourceful with food choices and preparation methods. Dishes like stewed potatoes emerged during this time to use the easy-to-grow and easy-to-store spuds. Stewed potatoes made a filling, hearty, satisfying meal requiring only a few essential ingredients. Many variations of this dish have evolved over the years, but most recipes stick to the tradition of simplicity. This recipe for stewed potatoes would be right at home at any grandma’s Sunday dinner.

Ingredients for Stewed Potatoes

• Potatoes: Peeled and diced russet potatoes are most commonly used for this stewed dish due to their fluffy texture and high starch content. When potatoes stew, they release starch into the cooking water, thickening it and making it smooth and creamy.
• Onion: Dried minced onion rehydrates during cooking, bringing a savory and concentrated flavor to the dish.
• Salt & Pepper: Simple salt and pepper are essential seasonings for this dish. They enhance the natural flavor of the potatoes and add a touch of spicy earthiness.
• Garlic powder: Spicy, fragrant and pungent garlic powder pairs wonderfully with the flavor of buttery potatoes.
• Butter: Rich and creamy butter is the best friend of stewed potatoes, complementing and enhancing their smooth and velvety texture.
• Bacon drippings (optional): The addition of bacon fat is a traditional ingredient that brings a smoky richness to the dish. Feel free to omit the bacon to reduce calories and fat.

Directions
Step 1: Boil the potatoes

In a large stock pot, add the diced potatoes and fill the pot with just enough cold water to cover entirely. Place covered on the stovetop over medium heat and bring it to a simmer.

Step 2: Stew the potatoes

Add the onion flakes, salt, pepper and garlic powder. Simmer for 30 to 35 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the liquid has reduced by half. Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the butter, slightly mashing some of the potatoes until reaching the desired consistency. Serve with a slotted spoon.

Stewed Potatoes Recipe Variations

• Add some bacon: While this recipe invites you to add bacon grease for texture and flavor, you can also add in the bacon. Stir in chopped and cooked bacon pieces, Tasso ham or pancetta in with the butter.
• Make them spicy: In addition to the seasonings the recipe calls for, add some cayenne pepper or a cajun seasoning blend for a savory kick.
• Make them cheesy: Potatoes are better with cheese!

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