A Christmas Story Dinner 2014: Side Dishes Purple Cabbage and Creamy Mashed Potatoes

As our side dishes for one part of our Christmas Story meal, I copied Ralphie's Mother and cooked red cabbage and mashed potatoes to go along with the meatloaf.  

Let's start with the cabbage.  To me, red or purple cabbage is more flavorful than green cabbage.  I added some diced Christmas ham to the pot and it really added to the flavor.

1 lb. purple cabbage, outer leaves and core removed, thinly sliced

2 cups chicken broth

salt to taste

1/4 cup diced ham

In a medium sized saucepan, add cabbage and chicken broth.  Bring to a boil over high heat and then reduce to a simmer.  Let cook for 15 - 20 minutes or so, stirring occasionally.

Add ham and cover and let cabbage continue to simmer until tender.  Taste and add salt to your liking.

Next up:  Creamy Mashed Potatoes

This made just enough for four adults.  Adjust amounts accordingly if you have more diners.

5 medium Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1 inch pieces
4 T. butter
2 T. heavy whipping cream

In a medium saucepan, add potatoes and water to cover.  Add 1 t. salt.  Bring to a boil and lower heat slightly.  Let potatoes cook until tender.

Drain potatoes and put back into saucepan.  Using a potato masher, mash potatoes.  I like to leave a few lump just to prove to everyone that I'm not using instant!

Add butter and cream and stir until combined with the potatoes.  Taste and add salt to your liking.  Add additional cream or butter if potatoes are dry.