Blindhuhn facts for kids
Blindhuhn (which means "blind chicken" in English) is a special kind of stew from Westphalia, a region in Germany. It's also known by names like "blind hen" or "Westphalian blind chicken." This warm and filling dish is made with different kinds of beans, potatoes, carrots, pears, and apples, along with tasty bacon.
Even though its name includes "chicken," this stew actually contains no chicken at all! It can be soupy or creamy, depending on how it's made. The apples and a little vinegar give it a slightly tangy taste. Sometimes, cooks add smoked or unsmoked mettwurst sausage to the stew. You might also find it topped with crispy fried onions.
What is Blindhuhn Made Of?
Blindhuhn is a hearty stew, perfect for a filling meal. Its main ingredients are:
- Different types of beans
- Potatoes
- Carrots
- Pears
- Apples
- Bacon
These ingredients are cooked together to create a rich and flavorful dish. The mix of vegetables, fruits, and bacon makes it unique.
Optional Additions
While the basic recipe is delicious, some people like to add extra ingredients.
- Mettwurst sausage: This type of sausage can be added and cooked with the stew.
- Fried onions: Crispy fried onions are often sprinkled on top just before serving. They add a nice crunch and flavor.
Why is it Called "Blind Chicken"?
The name "Westphalian blind chicken" is quite old. A famous German cookbook author, Henriette Davidis, wrote about it in the mid-1800s. She even called it the "Westphalian national dish."
The name comes from a German proverb that says, "even a blind hen finds a grain." This means that even if you're not looking carefully, you'll still find something good. For the stew, it suggests that everyone will find something they enjoy in this mix of ingredients.
Another idea is that the name refers to how the dish was made. It might have been an autumn dish. Cooks would use up the last bits and pieces from their garden. They were like a "blind chicken" finding whatever was left.
This stew is similar to another North German dish called Birnen, Bohnen und Speck, which means "pears, beans, and bacon." Both dishes combine sweet and savory flavors.
