Camembert Aligot

I want to personally thank the angel who slid into my DMs with the idea for Camembert Aligot because this one has truly stolen my heart. The second I read that message, all other potato plans were cancelled. This recipe demanded immediate attention, and honestly, I think the festive loaded fries will forgive me. (They’ll resurface eventually, I promise.) But for now, Camembert Aligot reigns supreme, sliding into the coveted number 6 spot in my 24 Days of Christmas Potatoes series.

Here’s my advice: drop whatever mundane task you’re doing—scrolling TikTok, staring into the abyss of your fridge, attempting to untangle the Christmas tree lights—and get yourself to the nearest shop. You need to experience this gloriously cheesy, stretchy, and swoon-worthy mash masterpiece. Forget the faff of traditional holiday sides and let this dish be your festive centrepiece. It’s indulgent, it’s comforting, and let’s be honest—it’s downright sexy.

So… What is Aligot?

For the uninitiated, Aligot is a French classic hailing from the gorgeous L’Aubrac region, which is known for its rolling hills, hearty food, and dedication to all things cheesy. It’s a dish that’s essentially mashed potato, but elevated to an art form. Think smooth, buttery mash whipped with so much cheese that it transforms into this melty, stretchy, gooey delight. It’s the food equivalent of a big festive hug—complete with a sprinkling of sophistication, of course.

Traditionally, Aligot is made with a specific cheese called tomme fraîche, which, in all honesty, isn’t the easiest thing to find here in the UK. But being the experimental spud enthusiast that I am, I decided to swap it for a festive favourite—Camembert. The result? A rich, creamy, and gloriously gooey mash with just the right hit of that luxurious, slightly earthy Camembert flavour. It’s indulgence in every bite, and I’m here for it.

A Disclaimer to My French Friends

Before we go any further, I want to send a heartfelt désolé to the people of France. I know this isn’t an authentic Aligot, and I know I’ve probably just angered a few grand-mères in the process. Please don’t revoke my right to holiday in your beautiful country—I promise I’m still a loyal fan of your culinary genius. Consider this recipe my love letter to French potatoes, with a festive Poppy twist. Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, after all, and I’ve got nothing but respect for the OG Aligot.

How to serve camembert aligot

Let me paint the picture for you. You’ve got a big, bubbling bowl of this silky, stretchy mash in front of you, just begging to be eaten. How do you tackle it? Personally, I think it’s a dish that’s versatile enough to steal the show at any meal. Here are a few serving ideas to spark some inspiration:

1. As a fondue alternative
   Picture this: a bubbling bowl of Camembert Aligot in the middle of the table, surrounded by chunks of crusty bread, roasted veg, and even crispy pigs in blankets for dunking. It’s basically a fondue party, but with potatoes. Festive, decadent, and guaranteed to impress.
2. As a classic side
   Serve it up alongside roasted meats, sausages, or even a veggie wellington. It’s the ultimate companion for a plate of rich, comforting Christmas mains. (And yes, it’s definitely better than the slightly sad mash your aunt usually makes.)
3. Solo star power
   This dish is so good it doesn’t even need accompaniments. Just grab a spoon and dive in. No judgment here—it’s Christmas, after all.

Why you’ll love It

What makes this dish so magical? For starters, it’s a recipe that brings people together. Whether you’re passing around a bowl for communal dipping or serving it as part of a sit-down feast, it’s impossible to eat Camembert Aligot without cracking a smile. It’s comfort food at its finest, with that extra special something that feels oh-so-festive. Plus, it’s one of those rare dishes that feels fancy without requiring a culinary degree. If you can mash potatoes and melt cheese, you’ve got this.

So, my friends, it’s time to make this dreamy mash a reality. Whether you’re tucking into it on Christmas Eve, serving it as the star of your Boxing Day buffet, or just whipping it up for a mid-week festive treat, Camembert Aligot is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Potatoes, cheese, and a little bit of Poppy magic—what more could you want?

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