Labskaus
Mittagessen • Deutschland
Über Labskaus
Northern German corned beef hash with beetroot, pickles, and fried egg
How to Make Labskaus (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Labskaus is a classic dish from Northern Germany, celebrated for its unique blend of flavors and rustic charm. Traditionally enjoyed by sailors and workers in port cities like Hamburg and Bremen, Labskaus is a hearty meal that combines mashed potatoes, corned beef, beetroot, and pickles. Its striking pink color and savory taste make it a standout dish in German cuisine. The dish originated as a way to use preserved foods during long sea voyages, but over time, it has become a beloved staple in northern households and is often found on menus in local taverns and restaurants. The taste of Labskaus is both comforting and intriguing, with salted beef paired against the earthy sweetness of beets and the tang of pickled cucumber. Served with a fried egg and herring fillet, it’s a filling meal that delivers plenty of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. This healthier version of Labskaus maintains the authentic flavors while using leaner meat, less fat, and more vegetables to enhance nutritional value without sacrificing taste. For anyone seeking to explore German culture through food, Labskaus offers an authentic taste of the North German coast.
Zutaten(für One hearty plate with egg and herring, as served in North Germany)
- 400g Potatoes (mehligkochend (starchy))
- 200g Lean corned beef (preferably reduced-sodium)
- 100g Beetroot (cooked and diced)
- 1 medium Onion (finely chopped)
- 2 Pickled cucumbers (Gewürzgurken, diced)
- 60ml Low-fat milk
- 1 tsp Butter (or light margarine)
- 2 Eggs (to be fried for serving)
- 2 Matjes herring fillets (traditional topping) - optional
- to taste Salt and pepper
- 1 tbsp Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish) - optional
Anleitung
- 1
Peel and dice potatoes. Place them in a pot with enough water to cover, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil. Cook until soft, about 10-12 minutes.
12 minutes
Cut potatoes evenly for consistent cooking.
- 2
While potatoes cook, sauté the chopped onion in a non-stick pan with 1 tsp butter until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4 minutes
Use low heat to avoid browning the onions.
- 3
Add the corned beef to the pan with onions, breaking it up with a spatula. Stir in diced beetroot and pickled cucumbers. Cook for 3-4 minutes until heated through.
4 minutes
For extra flavor, add a splash of pickle brine.
- 4
Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot. Add low-fat milk and mash until smooth and creamy.
3 minutes
Mash while potatoes are still hot for best texture.
Warum dieses Gericht gesund ist
This healthy Labskaus recipe uses lean corned beef, increases the vegetable content, and limits added fats, making it suitable for calorie-conscious eaters. The fiber from beets and potatoes helps keep you full, while the protein supports muscle maintenance. It’s a nutrient-dense, satisfying meal that fits well into a balanced diet, especially when served with a side salad.
Labskaus provides a balanced combination of complex carbohydrates from potatoes, high-quality protein from lean corned beef and eggs, and dietary fiber from beetroot and pickles. Beets add antioxidants and folate, while onions and cucumbers contribute vitamins and minerals. Using low-fat milk and minimal butter keeps saturated fat low. The dish is naturally gluten-free if prepared without bread sides and can be modified further to reduce sodium for heart health.
Profi-Tipps
- 💡Tip 1: For an authentic touch, use locally made pickles and beetroot.
- 💡Tip 2: Don't over-mash the potatoes to keep some texture in the Labskaus.
- 💡Tip 3: Serve with a side of fresh cucumber salad for extra crunch and nutrition.
Aufbewahrung und Servieren
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.
Am besten geeignet für: Breakfast or Lunch
Nährwerte
| Nährstoff | Pro 100g |
|---|---|
| Energie | 170.0 kcal |
| Protein | 12.0 g |
| Kohlenhydrate | 15.0 g |
| Gesamtfett | 7.0 g |
| Ballaststoffe | 2.0 g |