Stoemp

 

I often find culinary inspiration in the most unexpected places—foreign television. Years ago, I stumbled upon beef daube while watching the French series “Marianne, One of a Kind.” Recently, it was an episode of “Maigret”—the brilliant French adaptation of the Georges Simenon books starring Bruno Cremer—that introduced me to stoemp. The word was unfamiliar, so I dug into some research and discovered a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious. 

Bruno Cremer as Simenon’s “Maigret.”

   Stoemp (pronounced “stomp”) is a traditional Belgian classic, rooted in the country’s rural, peasant cuisine. Born from necessity, it transforms simple, seasonal ingredients into a hearty, flavorful meal. A staple in Flemish and Brussels homes, this creamy mash of potatoes and vegetables is perfect for warming up on a cold night.

To me, stoemp feels like Belgium’s answer to colcannon, the Irish potato dish. But where colcannon leans on bacon, leeks, and cabbage, my stoemp swaps in finely shaved Brussels sprouts in place of the cabbage for a distinct flair. I ran the potatoes through a ricer for extra texture, though a whisk or hand mixer works if you prefer silkier results. Here’s my take on this Belgian gem.

Stoemp

4 medium Melissa’s russet potatoes, peeled and cubed

1 T. salt

3 slices thick-cut bacon

2 T. butter

2  Melissa’s leeks, sliced into thin coins (white and light green parts only)

1 c. finely sliced Melissa’s Brussels sprouts

Few gratings fresh nutmeg

⅔ c. heavy cream

Freshly ground black pepper

 Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and mash or run through a ricer.

In a large pan, fry the bacon until nearly crisp. Add butter, leeks, and Brussels sprouts, cooking for 5 minutes until softened (avoid browning).  Stir in the cream, nutmeg, and salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 15 minutes.

 Strain the liquid (reserve it), and mix the bacon and veggies into the potatoes. Return the reserved liquid to the pan, boiling until reduced by half, stirring constantly. Pour it into the potato mixture, adding extra butter or cream if it feels too dry.

Serve hot and enjoy!