Himmel un Ääd, or “Heaven and Earth,” is a traditional dish from the Rhineland region of Germany, named for its key ingredients—apples (from the heavens) and potatoes (from the earth). This hearty, rustic meal combines creamy mashed potatoes with sweet, tangy applesauce, paired with pan-fried blood sausage (or black pudding) and caramelized onions. The contrast of savory and sweet, along with the rich, smoky sausage, makes Himmel un Ääd a beloved comfort food, especially in cooler months. It’s simple yet deeply satisfying, perfect for a cozy family dinner. Let’s dive into this authentic recipe and bring a taste of the Rhineland to your table!
Ingredients
For the Himmel un Ääd (Serves 4):
- 1 1/2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed (preferably starchy varieties like Russet)
- 4 medium apples (tart varieties like Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and chopped
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste, depending on apple tartness)
- 1/2 cup water (for applesauce)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for applesauce)
- 1/2 cup whole milk (for mashed potatoes)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
- 1 teaspoon salt (divided, for potatoes and seasoning)
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 pound blood sausage (or black pudding), sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For Serving:
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Equipment Needed
- Large pot (for boiling potatoes)
- Medium saucepan (for applesauce)
- Large skillet (for frying sausage and onions)
- Potato masher or ricer
- Wooden spoon
- Colander
- Cutting board and sharp knife
Step-by-Step Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add 1/2 teaspoon of salt and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain the potatoes in a colander, then return them to the pot. Add 1 tablespoon of butter, 1/2 cup of milk, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or ricer until smooth and creamy. Cover to keep warm while you prepare the other components.
Why Starchy Potatoes? They mash up fluffy and creamy, perfect for soaking up the flavors of the dish.
Step 2: Make the Applesauce
In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped apples, 1/2 cup of water, 1/4 cup of sugar, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Cook for 10–15 minutes, or until the apples are soft and breaking down. Mash the apples with a fork or potato masher for a chunky texture, or blend with an immersion blender for a smoother applesauce. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, if using, and taste—adjust the sugar if the apples are too tart. Keep the applesauce warm over low heat until ready to serve.
Pro Tip: Homemade applesauce adds a fresh, vibrant flavor, but if you’re short on time, you can use unsweetened store-bought applesauce and warm it with a pinch of cinnamon.
Step 3: Caramelize the Onions
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 10–12 minutes, or until they’re soft and golden brown. If they start to stick, add a splash of water to deglaze the pan. Once caramelized, transfer the onions to a plate and cover to keep warm.
Flavor Booster: Slow-cooking the onions brings out their natural sweetness, which pairs beautifully with the savory sausage.
Step 4: Fry the Blood Sausage
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Place the blood sausage slices in the skillet in a single layer. Fry for 3–4 minutes per side, or until the outside is crispy and golden and the sausage is heated through. Be gentle when flipping, as blood sausage can be delicate. Once cooked, transfer the sausage to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess fat.
Handle with Care: Blood sausage has a soft texture, so use a spatula and avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent it from breaking apart.
Step 5: Assemble the Himmel un Ääd
Divide the warm mashed potatoes among four plates, creating a smooth base. Spoon a generous portion of warm applesauce over or beside the potatoes, depending on your preference—some like it mixed together, while others prefer them side by side. Arrange the fried blood sausage slices on top or alongside the potatoes and applesauce. Scatter the caramelized onions over the sausage, letting them spill onto the plate for a rustic look. If desired, sprinkle with a bit of chopped parsley for a pop of color.
Presentation Tip: For a traditional Rhineland vibe, serve on simple, rustic plates to highlight the dish’s humble origins.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Himmel un Ääd immediately while everything is hot, letting the flavors meld as you dig in. The creamy potatoes, tangy applesauce, crispy sausage, and sweet onions create a symphony of textures and tastes in every bite. Encourage diners to mix the components together on their plate for the full experience.
Serving Suggestion: A glass of crisp Riesling or a cold Kölsch beer complements the dish’s sweet and savory notes perfectly.
Serving Suggestions
Himmel un Ääd is a complete meal, but you can enhance the experience with a few simple additions:
- Mustard: A dollop of spicy German mustard on the side adds a tangy kick that pairs well with the sausage.
- Green Salad: A light salad with a sharp vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: A slice of rye or sourdough is great for mopping up any leftover applesauce or sausage drippings.
- Apple Compote Variation: For extra “heaven,” serve with a chunky apple compote instead of smooth applesauce.
Tips for Success
- Blood Sausage Substitute: If blood sausage isn’t available or to your taste, you can use smoked sausage or bratwurst—just pan-fry until crispy.
- Apple Choice: Tart apples like Granny Smith work best to balance the richness of the sausage, but you can use sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp if you prefer.
- Make Ahead: The mashed potatoes and applesauce can be prepared a day in advance and reheated gently on the stovetop. Fry the sausage and onions just before serving for the best texture.
- Seasoning Balance: Taste the applesauce and potatoes before serving—adjust the salt in the potatoes and the sugar in the applesauce to suit your palate.
A Final Note
Himmel un Ääd is a dish that captures the rustic charm of Rhineland cuisine, blending humble ingredients into a meal that’s both comforting and full of character. The process of mashing potatoes, simmering apples, and frying sausage fills your kitchen with the cozy aroma of home cooking, while the vibrant contrast of creamy, sweet, and savory elements on the plate delights the senses. Whether you’re exploring German culinary traditions or simply craving a hearty, soul-warming dish, this Himmel un Ääd recipe will transport you to a quaint Rhineland tavern. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the balance of heaven and earth, and let’s create a plate of pure comfort.