Anthony Bourdain's Creamed Pearl Onions Are Keeping Us Warm This Winter

If you’re looking for a cozy side dish to warm your heart this winter, you’ve come to the right place! Anthony Bourdain’s Creamed Pearl Onions Are Keeping Us Warm This Winter is a delightful recipe that combines tender pearl onions with a rich, creamy sauce. This dish is not only perfect for family gatherings or holiday feasts but also makes a comforting addition to any weeknight dinner. Trust me, once you taste this savory treat, it will become a beloved staple in your home!

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients and easy steps, you’ll create something truly special. So let’s dive into why this dish is sure to become a favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting flavors: The creamy béchamel sauce paired with the subtle sweetness of pearl onions creates a warm hug on your plate.
• Quick preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delightful dish in under 75 minutes.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the rich flavors, making it an excellent choice for gatherings.
• Versatile side: Perfect for Thanksgiving or any winter meal, these creamed pearl onions can complement just about any main dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple ingredients will get you one step closer to enjoying this delicious dish! Each one plays a vital role in creating that signature creamy flavor and comforting texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Onions

• Kosher salt
• 2 pounds pearl onions
• 2 teaspoons black peppercorns (plus ground pepper for seasoning)
• 2 bay leaves

For the Creamy Sauce

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 0.25 cup all-purpose flour
• 2.67 cups whole milk
• 6 sage leaves (finely chopped)
• 0.5 teaspoon thyme (finely chopped)

Variations

One of the greatest joys of cooking is how flexible recipes can be! Feel free to experiment with these variations to suit your taste or use what you have on hand:

• Add some cheese: Stir in some grated cheese like Gruyère or Parmesan before baking for an extra layer of flavor.
• Make it herby: Experiment with different herbs such as rosemary or parsley for a fresh twist.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cayenne pepper to the sauce for an unexpected kick!
• Mix in veggies: Toss in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

How to Make Anthony Bourdain’s Creamed Pearl Onions Are Keeping Us Warm This Winter

Step 1: Prepare the Onions

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and preparing an ice water bath. Bring a large saucepan of water to a boil and add 1 tablespoon of kosher salt. Blanch the pearl onions until their skins loosen—this should take only 1 to 2 minutes. Quickly transfer them to the ice bath using a slotted spoon, allowing them to cool down. Once they’re cool, drain and pat them dry before trimming off their root ends and pinching off the skins. This step ensures that your onions are tender and ready for that delicious sauce!

Step 2: Simmer the Onions

Next, bring your saucepan back to a boil, adding in the peppercorns and bay leaves along with fresh water. Once boiling, gently add your peeled onions and simmer over moderately high heat until they are just tender—this should take about 5 to 8 minutes. Draining well afterward ensures they don’t become watery when baked.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a medium saucepan over moderately low heat, melt the butter until bubbly. Gradually whisk in the flour while stirring constantly with a wooden spoon until it starts bubbling and turns color slightly—about 3 minutes should do it! Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously. Continue simmering until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of your spoon—around 5 minutes. Stir in those aromatic sage and thyme leaves, seasoning generously with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Combine and Bake

Now comes the best part! Pour that luscious sauce over your tender onions placed in a baking dish. Bake for about 20 minutes until everything is bubbling and starting to brown at the edges—a sign that it’s ready! Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes before serving so those flavors can meld beautifully.

Enjoy every comforting bite of Anthony Bourdain’s Creamed Pearl Onions Are Keeping Us Warm This Winter! It’s sure to become a cherished recipe that warms both hearts and stomachs during chilly nights ahead.

Pro Tips for Making Anthony Bourdain’s Creamed Pearl Onions Are Keeping Us Warm This Winter

Making this dish is a delightful experience, and with a few pro tips, you’ll ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

• Choose Fresh Pearl Onions: Select firm, small pearl onions for the best flavor and texture. Fresh onions will have a sweeter taste and a pleasing crunch that enhances the overall dish.

• Use Ice Water Bath: After blanching the onions, transferring them to an ice water bath stops the cooking process. This helps maintain their crispness and prevents overcooking, ensuring they don’t turn mushy.

• Whisk Gradually: When adding milk to the flour mixture, whisk gradually to avoid lumps. This technique ensures a smooth, creamy béchamel sauce that coats the onions beautifully.

• Taste as You Go: Don’t hesitate to adjust seasoning! Taste your béchamel sauce before pouring it over the onions. A little extra salt or pepper can make all the difference in bringing out those comforting flavors.

• Allow to Rest Before Serving: Letting the dish rest for about 5 minutes after baking allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. It also makes serving easier since it firms up slightly.

How to Serve Anthony Bourdain’s Creamed Pearl Onions Are Keeping Us Warm This Winter

This dish is not only delicious but also beautifully inviting when served. Here are some ideas on how to present it for maximum appeal.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of finely chopped parsley or additional sage on top adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: A light dusting of Parmesan just before serving gives an added depth of flavor that complements the creamy sauce.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic provide a comforting companion that balances well with the rich creamed onions.
• Sautéed Green Beans: The crunchiness of green beans tossed in olive oil and garlic offers a fresh contrast to the creamy texture of the pearl onions.
• Quinoa Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette: A light quinoa salad can introduce bright flavors and textures, making it a refreshing side option that pairs nicely.
• Herb-Roasted Carrots: Sweet, caramelized carrots seasoned with thyme or rosemary bring natural sweetness and earthy flavors that complement this dish perfectly.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy Anthony Bourdain’s Creamed Pearl Onions as a heartwarming addition to your winter meals!

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe for creamed pearl onions is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it save time on busy weeknights, but it also allows the flavors to deepen when made in advance. Here’s how to store and enjoy your leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

• Transfer the cooled creamed pearl onions into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Make sure to label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag.
• Ensure that you remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Frozen creamed pearl onions can last up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw frozen onions in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• You can also microwave in short bursts, stirring between intervals until heated evenly.

FAQs

If you have questions about making Anthony Bourdain’s creamed pearl onions, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

How can I make Anthony Bourdain’s Creamed Pearl Onions Are Keeping Us Warm This Winter healthier?

You can swap whole milk for low-fat or plant-based alternatives like almond or oat milk. Additionally, reducing butter or using a heart-healthy oil can cut down on calories without sacrificing flavor.

Can I use frozen pearl onions instead of fresh ones?

Yes! Frozen pearl onions are a convenient substitute. Just add them directly to your recipe without thawing; however, you may need to adjust cooking times slightly.

How do I know when my creamed pearl onions are done baking?

Your dish is ready when the sauce is bubbling and just starting to brown at the edges. Let it stand for a few minutes before serving for optimal flavor and texture.

Can I add other herbs or spices to Anthony Bourdain’s Creamed Pearl Onions Are Keeping Us Warm This Winter?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with herbs like rosemary or parsley. A pinch of nutmeg can also enhance the creamy flavors beautifully.

What dishes pair well with creamed pearl onions?

These delicious pearl onions complement roasted meats, grilled vegetables, and hearty grain salads perfectly. They’re an excellent addition to any holiday table!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making Anthony Bourdain’s creamed pearl onions this winter. They’re not just a side dish but a warm hug on a plate that brings comfort and nostalgia. Enjoy every creamy bite and feel free to share your experience with friends and family; they’ll surely love it too! Happy cooking!