Tim Walz's Hot Dish Recipe: A Taste of Minnesota
Minnesota's governor, Tim Walz, is known for his love of hot dish, a casserole-style dish that's a staple of Minnesota cuisine. While we don't have a specific recipe attributed directly to Governor Walz, we can explore a classic, crowd-pleasing version that embodies the spirit of a true Minnesota hot dish. This recipe is easily adaptable to your preferences and what you have on hand, much like the hot dish tradition itself.
What Makes a Minnesota Hot Dish?
Before diving into the recipe, let's understand what makes a Minnesota hot dish so unique. It's more than just a casserole; it's a comforting, hearty meal often featuring:
- Ground meat: Typically beef, but turkey or even pork can be substituted.
- Cream of mushroom soup: This is a quintessential ingredient, providing creaminess and savory flavor.
- Tater tots: A crunchy topping that adds a delightful textural contrast. However, other crispy toppings can work too!
- A hearty vegetable base: Often peas, carrots, or green beans, adding color and nutrients. Corn, mushrooms, or even broccoli can be delicious additions.
- A touch of nostalgia: The best hot dishes are those passed down through generations, each family adding their own unique twist.
The Recipe: A Governor-Approved (in Spirit) Hot Dish
This recipe aims to capture the essence of a classic Minnesota hot dish, adaptable to your tastes. Feel free to experiment!
Yields: 6-8 servings Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 35-40 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups tater tots
Instructions:
- Brown the meat: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
- Sauté the vegetables: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Combine ingredients: In a large casserole dish, combine the cooked ground beef and vegetables with the cream of mushroom soup and milk. Stir well to combine.
- Add vegetables and cheese: Stir in the frozen peas and carrots and half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Top with tater tots: Arrange the tater tots evenly over the top of the casserole. Sprinkle with the remaining cheddar cheese.
- Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
- Rest and serve: Let the hot dish rest for a few minutes before serving.
Variations and Tips for the Perfect Hot Dish:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Get cheesy: Experiment with different cheeses, such as Monterey Jack or Colby Jack.
- Add some crunch: Consider adding crispy fried onions for extra texture.
- Vegetarian option: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Make it your own: Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy, such as corn, green beans, or broccoli.
This recipe is a great starting point for your own Minnesota hot dish adventure. Embrace the flexibility and personalize it to create a dish that truly reflects your taste. Remember, the best hot dish is the one you love the most! Enjoy!
