Heaven and Earth (Himmel und Erde) is a classic German comfort dish that combines two humble ingredients—potatoes from the earth and apples from the sky. This dish creates a perfect balance of sweet and savory with creamy mashed potatoes and smooth applesauce, finished with golden crispy onions. When I add sausages on the side, it transforms into a hearty, filling meal that brings the essence of rustic German cooking right to the table.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
4 large potatoes, peeled and quartered
1 cup applesauce
1 onion, thinly sliced
4 small sausages (optional)
2 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions
I bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the quartered potatoes. I let them cook for about 20 minutes, until they're fork-tender.
I drain the potatoes and mash them with butter, salt, and pepper. If I want a creamier mash, I stir in a splash of milk or cream.
While the potatoes are cooking, I heat a bit of oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry the thinly sliced onions. I stir occasionally and cook them until golden brown and crispy, about 10–15 minutes.
If I’m adding sausages, I fry or grill them until they’re browned and cooked through.
To serve, I spoon mashed potatoes onto each plate, top with applesauce and crispy onions, and place the sausages alongside.
I like to sprinkle a bit of fresh parsley on top for a nice touch of color before serving warm.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Calories: Approximately 375 kcal per serving
Variations
I sometimes use caramelized apples instead of plain applesauce for a deeper, more complex flavor.
For a vegetarian version, I leave out the sausages or replace them with grilled mushrooms or smoked tofu.
I’ve tried adding a splash of cream to the mashed potatoes for extra richness.
A pinch of nutmeg in the potatoes brings a warm, spiced element that I really enjoy in colder months.
Instead of frying, I occasionally roast the onions for a slightly different texture and flavor.
Storage/Reheating
When I have leftovers, I store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm the mashed potatoes and applesauce separately in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little milk or water to loosen the mash if needed. The onions are best reheated in a skillet to retain their crispness. If sausages are included, I reheat them in a skillet or oven until heated through.
FAQs
What does “Heaven and Earth” mean in this dish?
The name refers to the combination of apples (from the heavens) and potatoes (from the earth). It’s a poetic name that captures the heart of this sweet and savory dish.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, I use plant-based butter and skip the sausages—or substitute with vegan ones. The rest of the ingredients are already vegan-friendly.
Is this served as a main dish or side dish?
Traditionally, it can be either. I often serve it as a main course with sausages, but it also works well as a hearty side.
What type of applesauce works best?
I prefer using unsweetened applesauce, as the potatoes and onions already bring enough contrast. Homemade applesauce with a touch of cinnamon also works beautifully.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, I make the components ahead and reheat them before serving. Just be sure to keep the onions crisp by reheating them separately in a pan.
Conclusion
Heaven and Earth is more than just a dish—it’s a comforting blend of flavors that tells a story of tradition, simplicity, and warmth. I find it incredibly satisfying and nostalgic, perfect for cozy nights or when I want to impress guests with something both rustic and unique. With minimal ingredients and quick preparation, it’s a timeless recipe I always come back to.
Recipe:
Heaven and Earth (Himmel und Erde)
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Heaven and Earth (Himmel und Erde) is a traditional German comfort dish made with creamy mashed potatoes and sweet applesauce, topped with crispy fried onions. Optional sausages make it a hearty main course, blending rustic simplicity with rich, comforting flavors.
Ingredients
4 large potatoes, peeled and quartered
1 cup applesauce
1 onion, thinly sliced
4 small sausages (optional)
2 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the quartered potatoes. Cook for about 20 minutes, until fork-tender.
- Drain the potatoes and mash them with butter, salt, and pepper. For a creamier mash, stir in a splash of milk or cream if desired.
- While the potatoes cook, heat a bit of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the sliced onions, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and crispy (10–15 minutes).
- If using sausages, fry or grill them until browned and cooked through.
- To serve, spoon mashed potatoes onto plates, top with applesauce and crispy onions, and place sausages alongside if using.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
Use caramelized apples instead of applesauce for a deeper flavor.
Omit sausages or replace with grilled mushrooms or smoked tofu for a vegetarian version.
Add a splash of cream or a pinch of nutmeg to mashed potatoes for extra richness and warmth.
Roast onions instead of frying for a different texture.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat onions separately to keep them crispy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Boiling, Frying
- Cuisine: German
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 375 kcal
- Sugar: 9 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
