Anthony Bourdain’s Creamed Pearl Onions Are Keeping Us Warm This Winter is a cozy, indulgent dish perfect for those chilly days. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply want a comforting side for dinner, this recipe delivers rich flavors with the subtle sweetness of pearl onions. The creamy sauce, infused with sage and thyme, elevates the dish and makes it a standout at any table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavor: The creamy sauce paired with pearl onions creates a warm and satisfying dish that feels like a hug in a bowl.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe simplifies cooking without sacrificing taste, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for holiday meals or everyday dinners, this dish pairs well with various main courses like roasted chicken or beef.
• Classic Appeal: Inspired by Anthony Bourdain’s culinary genius, this recipe brings timeless flavors to your dining experience.
• Crowd-Pleaser: It’s an excellent choice for entertaining guests, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy and full.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Anthony Bourdain’s Creamed Pearl Onions Are Keeping Us Warm This Winter effectively, having the right tools is essential. These tools will help streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large saucepan
• Slotted spoon
• Ice bath setup (large bowl filled with ice water)
• 9- x 13-inch baking dish
• Medium saucepan
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large saucepan: Ideal for blanching pearl onions quickly while retaining their flavor and texture.
• Slotted spoon: Perfect for transferring blanched onions to the ice bath without losing any in the process.
• Medium saucepan: Essential for creating the creamy sauce that makes this dish so delicious.

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Ingredients

To create this delightful dish, gather the following ingredients:

For the Pearl 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)

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

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Set up an ice water bath by filling a large bowl with ice and water. Bring a large saucepan of water to a boil and add 1 tablespoon of salt.

Step 2: Blanch Pearl Onions

Add the pearl onions to boiling water and blanch just until the skins loosen, about 1 to 2 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the onions to the ice bath to cool down quickly. Drain well and pat dry. Trim off root ends and pinch off skins.

Step 3: Cook Onions in Flavorful Broth

Return the saucepan with water back to heat. Add black peppercorns and bay leaves; bring back to a boil. Add peeled onions and simmer over moderately high heat until just tender, approximately 5 to 8 minutes. Drain well again and pat dry before transferring onions to a 9- x 13-inch baking dish.

Step 4: Make Creamy Sauce

In a medium saucepan over moderately low heat, melt the butter. Stir in flour using a wooden spoon, cooking until bubbling and starting to turn color (about 3 minutes). Gradually whisk in whole milk while simmering until thick enough to coat the back of a spoon—this should take about 5 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Flavors

Stir in chopped sage and thyme into your creamy sauce. Season generously with salt and freshly ground pepper before pouring over blanched pearl onions in your baking dish.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in preheated oven for about 20 minutes until bubbling and edges begin to brown slightly. Allow standing for about 5 minutes before serving hot.

This delightful recipe will surely keep you warm all winter long! Enjoy every creamy bite of Anthony Bourdain’s creamed pearl onions as they shine on your table during any occasion.

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

Creamed pearl onions are a rich and comforting side dish that can elevate any meal. Here are some delightful ways to serve this classic recipe.

Classic Pairings

• Roasted Chicken – The savory flavors of roasted chicken complement the creamy texture of the pearl onions beautifully.
• Grilled Turkey – A juicy grilled turkey provides a smoky contrast that enhances the dish’s richness.

Holiday Feasts

• Thanksgiving Dinner – This dish is a must-have on your holiday table, adding warmth and flavor alongside traditional dishes.
• Christmas Gatherings – Serve it as a festive side that pairs wonderfully with glazed ham or beef tenderloin.

Casual Family Dinners

• Weeknight Meals – Perfect for a cozy family dinner, these creamed pearl onions can be made quickly and enjoyed with simple proteins.
• Potluck Events – A great dish to bring along; it’s easy to transport and always a crowd-pleaser.

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

Making creamed pearl onions is simple, but small adjustments can make them even better. Here are some tips for perfecting this recipe.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh pearl onions will provide better flavor than frozen ones. They also have a firmer texture.
• Adjust Seasoning – Taste the sauce before pouring it over the onions; don’t hesitate to adjust the salt and pepper according to your preference.
• Experiment with Herbs – While sage and thyme are classic choices, feel free to try rosemary or parsley for different flavor profiles.
• Ensure Proper Blanching – Blanching helps in peeling the onions easily. Make sure not to overcook them during this step.
• Let It Rest Before Serving – Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after baking will help meld the flavors together nicely.

Best Side Dishes for Anthony Bourdain’s Creamed Pearl Onions Are Keeping Us Warm This Winter

Pair your creamed pearl onions with other delicious sides for a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a delightful contrast in texture and flavor.
2. Honey Glazed Carrots – Sweet carrots add brightness to the plate and balance out the richness of the creamed onions.
3. Sautéed Green Beans – Crisp-tender green beans seasoned with lemon zest offer freshness that complements the creaminess.
4. Savory Stuffing – A herbed stuffing made with bread, vegetables, and broth enhances any holiday spread when paired with these onions.
5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – These slightly bitter greens roasted until crispy provide an excellent counterpoint to rich dishes.
6. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad featuring fresh herbs and citrus adds a refreshing touch alongside heavier sides.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Anthony Bourdain’s Creamed Pearl Onions, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your dish is perfect.

• Skipping the blanching process: Blanching helps loosen the skins of pearl onions. If you skip this step, peeling them will be much more difficult.
• Not seasoning enough: Seasoning is crucial for flavor. Be generous with salt and pepper in both the blanching water and the sauce.
• Using cold milk: Cold milk can create lumps in your sauce. Always warm it up a bit before adding it to the butter and flour mixture for a smooth consistency.
• Rushing the cooking time: Cooking times are crucial for achieving tender onions and a rich sauce. Don’t rush; follow the timing closely for the best results.
• Neglecting to let it rest: Allowing the dish to sit after baking lets flavors meld together. Skipping this step may lead to a less flavorful experience.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

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

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be stored for up to 2 months.

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

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Use medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Place in a saucepan over low heat, stirring gently until warmed thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about preparing Anthony Bourdain’s Creamed Pearl Onions, we’ve got answers!

How do I peel pearl onions quickly?

To peel pearl onions efficiently, blanch them in boiling salted water for 1-2 minutes, then transfer them to an ice bath. The skins will loosen and come off easily.

Can I use frozen pearl onions?

Yes! Frozen pearl onions can be used directly without thawing. Just adjust cooking times slightly as they may take longer to cook through.

What can I serve with Anthony Bourdain’s Creamed Pearl Onions Are Keeping Us Warm This Winter?

These creamy onions pair well with roasted meats or as part of a festive holiday spread alongside other side dishes.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add different herbs like rosemary or parsley, or even sprinkle some cheese on top before baking for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

Anthony Bourdain’s Creamed Pearl Onions Are Keeping Us Warm This Winter offer a comforting taste that resonates with many. The versatility of this dish allows you to tailor it according to your preferences while maintaining its classic essence. Give it a try and enjoy customizing it for your next gathering!

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Anthony Bourdain’s Creamed Pearl Onions

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Warm up this winter with Anthony Bourdain’s Creamed Pearl Onions, a cozy side dish that combines creamy flavors and the gentle sweetness of pearl onions. This delightful recipe transforms simple ingredients into a rich, velvety dish infused with aromatic herbs like sage and thyme. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a comforting weeknight meal, these creamed pearl onions are sure to impress your guests and elevate any dining experience. Easy to prepare, this recipe is ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs looking to indulge in classic comfort food.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 pounds pearl onions
• 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
• Kosher salt
• black peppercorns

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F and set up an ice water bath.
2. Boil a large saucepan of salted water; blanch pearl onions for 1-2 minutes until skins loosen. Transfer to an ice bath.
3. Drain and peel the onions, then simmer in flavored broth (water with black peppercorns and bay leaves) for 5-8 minutes until tender.
4. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over low heat, add flour, then gradually whisk in warmed milk until thickened.
5. Stir in chopped sage and thyme; season with salt and pepper.
6. Pour sauce over onions in a baking dish; bake for about 20 minutes until bubbling.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/2 cup (120g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 260mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: Use fresh pearl onions for the best flavor. Adjust seasoning based on your taste preferences. For a different twist, experiment with additional herbs like rosemary or parsley.