Oma's Carrots, Potatoes and Parsnips

3-4 carrots, peeled and sliced
2-3 parsnips, peeled and sliced
3-4 medium potatoes
1 onion, chopped
1 clove garlic, diced
1 bay leaf
salt & pepper to taste



Saute chopped onion until soft and transparent, add garlic - do not let them brown (Aunt Gerda uses olive oil.)  Add carrots, parsnips and potatoes.  Add bay leaf and salt and pepper.  Add water, enough for mixutre to be moist, but not so much that the water covers the mixture (I made it tonight and added about 1 1/2 cups water).  Simmer until vegetables are soft; remove bay leaf and mash mixture - either coarsely or smoothly, whichever you prefer.

"If parsnips are added, the dish has a nice sweetness.  For years Mother only used carrots & potatoes.  I suggested the addition of parsnips, and she agreed, they improved the taste.  Ultimate comfort food!"