Kartupelu Mashed Dish with Barley

This comforting and hearty dish combines the earthiness of potatoes with the nuttiness of barley, all brought together with the creaminess of milk. It's a perfect choice for a cozy meal during cold days. The dish captures the essence of traditional Latvian cuisine and serves as a delightful side dish or even a standalone dish. Made with simple and natural ingredients, kartupelu mashed dish is both flavorful and nutritious. The addition of barley not only enhances the texture but also provides a unique twist that elevates the dish. While the preparation is straightforward, the end result is a delicious meal loved by friends and family alike. Whether you're aiming for a complete meal with a protein on the side or a simple vegetarian endeavor, this recipe perfectly fits both. The flavor profile is subtle yet satisfying, allowing the core ingredients to shine. Overall, it’s a dish that feels like a warm embrace from a loving tradition.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 300 g potatoes
• 80 g barley
• 200 g water
• 200 g milk
• Salt - to taste

Preparation Time

Total: 45 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Begin by bringing the water to a boil in a medium-sized pot.
2. Rinse the barley thoroughly under running water to remove any debris.
3. Add the barley to the boiling water and reduce the heat to a simmer.
4. Cook the barley until it reaches a half-soft consistency; this should take around 15 minutes.
5. While the barley is cooking, peel and dice the potatoes into small cubes.
6. Once the barley is partially cooked, add the diced potatoes to the pot.
7. Pour in the milk, making sure it covers the potatoes and barley evenly.
8. Add a pinch of salt to taste, and stir the mixture gently.
9. Continue to cook on low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the mixture from sticking to the bottom.
10. Cook until the barley and potatoes are tender, approximately another 20 minutes.
11. If you prefer to have potato pieces in your dish, go ahead and serve it as is.
12. For a creamier consistency, mash the potatoes and barley with a little butter until smooth.
13. Adjust the seasoning with more salt if needed.
14. Once the desired consistency is achieved, remove from heat and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
15. This dish pairs exceptionally well with meat dishes, bringing a genuine Latvian experience to your meal.
16. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting flavors of kartupelu mashed dish.
17. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
18. Reheat gently on the stove with an additional splash of milk to restore its creamy texture.

Tips

• **Butter Addition**: A little butter added when mashing the potatoes can enhance the flavor.
• **Consistency**: Adjust the milk amount to reach your desired creaminess.
• **Variations**: Substitute potatoes with sweet potatoes for a sweeter version.
• **Flavor Boost**: Add herbs such as parsley or chives for a hint of freshness.

Nutritions

Calories: 250 kcal per serving

Protein: 7g

Fats: 2g

Carbohydrates: 55g

Variations

• **Vegetarian**: This dish is already vegetarian-friendly, but you can opt to make it vegan by using a plant-based milk.
• **Gluten-Free**: Swap barley with quinoa or buckwheat for a gluten-free alternative.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with roast chicken or beef for a traditional meal.
• Serve alongside fresh salad for a lighter option.
• Top with fried onions or sautéed mushrooms for enhanced flavors.

Best Places

• Riga Central Market Restaurant - Offers traditional Latvian dishes with fresh, local ingredients. Location: Nēģu iela 7, Riga, Latvia.
• Lido Atputas Centrs - Famous for authentic Latvian comfort food, including kartupelu dishes. Location: Krasta iela 76, Riga, Latvia.
• Vincents Restaurant - A contemporary take on traditional dishes, featuring a fusion of flavors. Location: Elizabetes iela 19, Riga, Latvia.
• Beer House No.1 - Known for local dishes paired with a selection of Latvian brews. Location: Kaļķu iela 11, Riga, Latvia.
• St. Petersbourg Hotel Restaurant - Offers a classic ambiance with a menu deeply rooted in local flavors. Location: Rataskaevu 7, Tallinn, Estonia.
• Ala Pagrabs - An underground tavern atmosphere with hearty, traditional dishes. Location: Peldu iela 19, Riga, Latvia.
• Bergs - An elegant setting with a focus on local and seasonal cuisine. Location: Elizabetes iela 83/85, Riga, Latvia.
• Citi Laiki - A delight for those seeking authentic and timeless Latvian cuisine. Location: Kaleju iela 3, Riga, Latvia.
• Rozengrals - A medieval dining experience reminiscent of old Latvia. Location: Rozena iela 1, Riga, Latvia.
• Folkklubs Ala - Offers a range of traditional dishes with live music. Location: Peldu iela 19, Riga, Latvia.