German Potato Apple Stew
A hearty German-inspired stew combining tender potatoes, savory ham, sweet apples, and prunes in a flavorful broth with aromatic caraway seeds, perfect for comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp. butter ⓘ
- 1 1/2 c. sliced onion ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. flour ⓘ
- 1 c. chicken broth ⓘ
- 1 c. apple juice ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. lemon juice ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. salt ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp. caraway seed ⓘ
- 1 1/2 lb. potatoes, unpeeled and cut in large chunks ⓘ
- 1 lb. cooked ham, cut in large cubes ⓘ
- 1/2 lb. pitted prunes ⓘ
- 2 red apples, cored and cut in wedges ⓘ
Instructions
- Melt butter in a large covered saucepan.
- Saute onion in butter until golden.
- Stir in flour, then gradually add broth, apple juice, lemon juice, salt, and caraway seed, stirring until thickened.
- Add potatoes and ham, then bring to a boil.
- Cover and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Add apples, cover, and simmer for an additional 15 to 20 minutes until potatoes and apples are tender, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a pinch of nutmeg. If you prefer a vegetarian version, replace the ham with mushrooms or smoked tofu for a similar texture. You can also swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth to keep it plant-based. Adjust the amount of caraway seeds to taste, as they can be potent.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty stew pairs beautifully with crusty bread or Dutch Toasts for a complete meal. A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables can complement the dish nicely. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Polish Sausage Stew for a comforting feast. Garnish with fresh herbs for added color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also use a microwave, but be sure to cover the dish to retain moisture. Adding a splash of broth or water can help maintain the stew's consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of German Potato Apple Stew contains roughly 896 calories, with 8g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 71g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (77% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2571mg per serving (112% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of apples in this stew?
Yes, you can use any firm apple variety you prefer, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Each type will provide a different flavor profile; tart apples add brightness while sweeter varieties will enhance the overall sweetness of the dish.
Is there a way to make this stew ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stew a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe and let it cool before storing in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen overnight. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving for the best taste.
Can I freeze the potato apple stew?
Yes, this stew can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stovetop, adding a bit of broth if needed.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).