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

If you’re looking for a cozy and comforting dish this winter, you’ve come to the right place! Anthony Bourdain’s Creamed Pearl Onions Are Keeping Us Warm This Winter is more than just a recipe; it’s a warm hug on a plate. The creamy, savory béchamel sauce combined with the sweet pearl onions creates a dish that feels like home. Whether it’s for a busy weeknight dinner or a festive family gathering, this dish is sure to impress everyone at your table.

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to prepare while still delivering that wow factor. You can whip it up in about 75 minutes, and your kitchen will be filled with the delightful aroma of sautéing sage and thyme. Trust me, once you taste these creamed pearl onions, they’ll become a staple in your cooking repertoire!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavors: The rich béchamel sauce paired with sweet pearl onions creates a dish that warms you from the inside out.
• Easy Preparation: Even if you’re new to cooking, this recipe is straightforward and easy to follow!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy texture and subtle flavors of sage and thyme.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving or just a cozy dinner at home, these creamed pearl onions fit right in.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the onions ahead of time and bake them just before serving!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to make this delicious dish! These are pantry staples that you might already have on hand.

For the Creamed Pearl Onions

• Kosher salt
• 2 pounds pearl onions
• 2 teaspoons black peppercorns (plus ground pepper for seasoning)
• 2 bay leaves
• 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 best things about cooking is its flexibility! Feel free to make this recipe your own with these fun variations:

• Add Some Cheese: Stir in some grated cheese like Gruyère or Parmesan for an extra creamy touch.
• Make It Veggie-Loaded: Toss in some cooked spinach or roasted mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
• Change Up the Herbs: If you don’t have sage or thyme, try using dill or rosemary instead for a different herby note.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cayenne pepper to give your sauce a little kick!

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. Then, set up an ice water bath while bringing a large saucepan of salted water to boil. Blanch the pearl onions until their skins loosen—this should only take 1 to 2 minutes. Transferring them quickly to an ice bath stops the cooking process, ensuring they remain tender yet firm. Once cooled, drain and dry them before trimming off those pesky root ends and pinching off the skins.

Step 2: Simmer the Onions

In the same saucepan, add black peppercorns and bay leaves along with fresh water, then bring it back to a boil. Add those peeled pearl onions and let them simmer until tender—about 5 to 8 minutes should do it! After draining well, pat them dry again before transferring them into a spacious baking dish. This step enhances their flavor as they soak up all those wonderful spices.

Step 3: Make the Béchamel Sauce

Now it’s time for the magic! In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter until it starts bubbling beautifully. Whisk in the flour continuously for about three minutes until it begins turning golden—this creates that lovely roux base for our sauce. Gradually add in milk while stirring until thickened; you’ll know it’s ready when it coats the back of your spoon nicely. Stir in chopped sage and thyme, then season generously with salt and pepper—this will elevate every bite of those delightful onions!

Step 4: Bake Your Dish

Pour that heavenly béchamel sauce over your pearl onions spread evenly across your baking dish. Pop them into your preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes until everything is bubbling away and slightly browned on top. Trust me; ten minutes spent letting it rest after baking will be worth it—you want those flavors to meld beautifully before serving.

Now gather around your table with family or friends because Anthony Bourdain’s Creamed Pearl Onions Are Keeping Us Warm This Winter are ready to shine!

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

Creating a comforting dish like creamed pearl onions is all about the details, so here are some pro tips to elevate your cooking experience!

• Choose Fresh Pearl Onions: Selecting fresh pearl onions rather than frozen ones will enhance the flavor and texture of your dish. Fresh onions have a sweeter taste and are firmer, making them perfect for roasting and baking.

• Don’t Rush the Blanching: Blanching the onions properly ensures that their skins loosen, making peeling much easier. Taking your time here is crucial for achieving that smooth, creamy texture later on.

• Make Your Bechamel Smooth: Whisk continuously while adding milk to the flour mixture to avoid lumps in your bechamel sauce. A smooth sauce will coat the onions beautifully and provide a more luxurious mouthfeel.

• Experiment with Herbs: While sage and thyme are traditional, feel free to experiment with other herbs such as rosemary or parsley. This can add a unique twist to the flavor profile and cater to your personal taste preferences.

• Allow Resting Time: Letting the dish sit for five minutes after baking allows flavors to meld together. This simple step can make a noticeable difference in how harmonious the dish tastes when served.

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

Serving this delightful dish is an opportunity to impress your guests with both presentation and complementary flavors. Here’s how you can present it beautifully:

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: Sprinkling chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that contrasts nicely with the creamy sauce.
• Cracked Black Pepper: A light dusting of freshly cracked black pepper not only enhances flavor but also adds visual interest.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy sprouts can balance out the creaminess of the pearl onions with their slightly bitter yet sweet flavor, creating a well-rounded plate.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The richness of garlic mashed potatoes complements the savory notes in creamed pearl onions perfectly, making for a comforting duo.
• Honey-Glazed Carrots: The sweetness of honey-glazed carrots pairs beautifully with the savory onion dish, adding a bright contrast that elevates both sides.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing can provide a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the creamed pearl onions while keeping things healthy.

With these serving suggestions and tips in hand, you’re all set for a warm and satisfying meal that pays homage to Anthony Bourdain’s culinary legacy! Enjoy every creamy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe for Anthony Bourdain’s Creamed Pearl Onions is perfect for meal prep! Not only can you prepare it ahead of time, but it also stores beautifully, making it an ideal side dish for busy weeknights or festive gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently to maintain the creamy texture.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the creamed pearl onions cool completely.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Frozen creamed pearl onions can last up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot.

FAQs

If you have some questions while making this comforting dish, we’ve got you covered!

Can I make Anthony Bourdain’s Creamed Pearl Onions ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare this dish a few days in advance. Simply store it in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready to serve.

What should I serve with Anthony Bourdain’s Creamed Pearl Onions?

These creamy pearl onions pair wonderfully with roasted meats or hearty vegetarian dishes. They’re a fantastic addition to any holiday table or cozy dinner night.

How do I ensure my bechamel sauce is smooth?

To achieve a smooth bechamel sauce, whisk continuously while adding the milk gradually. This helps prevent lumps and ensures a velvety finish.

Can I use frozen pearl onions instead?

Yes! Frozen pearl onions are a convenient alternative. Just thaw them before adding to your recipe for better texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making Anthony Bourdain’s Creamed Pearl Onions as much as I do! This recipe not only embodies warmth and comfort but also adds a touch of elegance to any meal. Whether it’s for a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, these creamy onions will surely impress. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your results—I can’t wait to hear how they turn out!