Entree: Denmark – Funen – Fynsk Brændende Kærlighed (Mashed potatoes topped with caramelized onions and fried bacon, a hearty Funen comfort meal)

Serving Size: 4

Approximate Time

Prep 10 min

Cook 30 min

Total 40 min

Ingredients

- 2 lb (900 g) potatoes, peeled and cut into even chunks
- 4 tbsp (60 g) unsalted butter, divided
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) whole milk, warmed
- 8 oz (225 g) smoked bacon, diced
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) vegetable oil
- Salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

1. Place potatoes in a pot, cover with cold salted water, bring to a boil and simmer until tender, about 15–20 minutes. Drain well and return to the pot.
2. Mash potatoes with 2 tbsp (30 g) butter and warmed milk until smooth; season with salt and pepper and keep warm.
3. While potatoes cook, heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced bacon and cook until most fat is rendered and pieces are crisp, about 6–8 minutes; transfer bacon with a slotted spoon to a plate lined with paper towel, leaving fat in the pan.
4. Add remaining 2 tbsp (30 g) butter to the pan with the bacon fat. Add sliced onions and cook gently, stirring occasionally, until deep golden and caramelized, about 20–25 minutes. If onions brown too quickly, lower heat and add a splash of water.
5. To serve, mound mashed potatoes on plates, make a shallow well in the center, spoon caramelized onions into the well and scatter crisp bacon over the top. Sprinkle with chopped parsley if using and serve hot.