Maritime Hodge Podge

If you are a maritimer more than likely you’ve had hodge podge this time of year, or at least you’ve probably heard of it. The last few summers it’s a meal that we’ve shared with friends and it’s a cute little tradition that I hope we keep up: hodge podge night. It’s super easy to make & extremely delicious. Basically, a summer comfort food. Vegetable chowder? Trust me, it’s good.

What you’ll need:

• new potatoes (skin on & quartered or halved)

• fresh carrots (cut into chunks)

• a mixture of green & yellow beans (cut into halves or bite sized pieces)

*To be honest this “recipe” I’m sharing has no measurements. It’s basically a throw what you have & how much you want in sort of recipe!

To Make:

• Start by boiling the potatoes in a large pot (I used a 5 quart dutch oven). Once the potatoes have been boiling about 5min (or a bit longer) throw in the cut up carrots & beans. And then, while you’re at it, throw in a healthy dollop of butter while the veggies are boiling. Just do it.

• Once your veggies are almost at your desired tenderness, drain the majority of the water off - leave at least an inch in the pot (maybe 2). Place the veggies and remaining water back on the burner at medium/low heat and add a cream blend or milk of your choice. I use blend cream (10%). See above photo - but you’re going to want to add approx. 2 cups. Start with 1 cup and add more if you see fit. You’ll want there to be some milk mixture in your bowls when you spoon it out to serve!

• Next add a few healthy dollops of butter. And I do mean healthy. Salt and pepper to taste.

• Heat through brining to a low simmer.

• Serve it up & enjoy! We like it with a side of rolls :)

It’s the perfect thing to make this long weekend to celebrate the end of summer!