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

This winter, Anthony Bourdain’s Creamed Pearl Onions Are Keeping Us Warm This Winter is the perfect dish to bring comfort and warmth to your table. With its creamy béchamel sauce infused with sage and thyme, this recipe is not only a delightful side dish but also an ideal addition to festive gatherings or cozy family dinners. Its rich flavors and simple preparation make it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavor: The blend of creamy sauce with fragrant herbs creates a dish that feels like a warm hug.
• Easy Preparation: This recipe simplifies the process of peeling pearl onions and making béchamel, making it accessible for all cooks.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pairs beautifully with roasted meats, poultry, or as part of a vegetarian feast.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its rich taste and appealing presentation, it’s sure to impress your guests at any gathering.
• Seasonal Appeal: Ideal for winter celebrations, especially Thanksgiving or holiday dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious dish, you’ll need some essential tools that will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large saucepan
• Slotted spoon
• Ice water bath setup
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• 9- x 13-inch baking dish

Importance of Each Tool

• Large saucepan: Perfect for boiling water and blanching the pearl onions efficiently.
• Slotted spoon: Makes transferring the onions easy without losing any in the water.
• Medium saucepan: Essential for creating the creamy béchamel sauce that gives this dish its rich flavor.

Ingredients

To recreate Anthony Bourdain’s beloved 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 Béchamel 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. Prepare an ice water bath by placing ice in a bowl of cold water.

Step 2: Blanch the Pearl Onions

1. Bring a large saucepan of water to a boil and add 1 tablespoon of salt.
2. Add the pearl onions and blanch them just until their skins loosen (about 1 to 2 minutes).
3. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the onions into the ice water bath to cool.
4. Once cooled, drain the onions and pat them dry.
5. Trim off the root ends and gently pinch off their skins.

Step 3: Cook the Onions

1. Return the saucepan to heat and add peppercorns and bay leaves to fresh water; bring it back to a boil.
2. Add the peeled onions into this boiling mixture.
3. Simmer over moderately high heat until just tender (approximately 5 to 8 minutes).
4. Drain well again, pat dry, and transfer them into a 9- x 13-inch baking dish.

Step 4: Make the Béchamel Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over moderately low heat.
2. Stir in flour using a wooden spoon until bubbling and slightly colored (about 3 minutes).
3. Gradually whisk in milk while simmering; keep stirring until thick enough to coat a spoon (around 5 minutes).
4. Mix in chopped sage and thyme; season generously with salt and ground pepper.

Step 5: Combine and Bake

Pour the béchamel sauce over the cooked pearl onions in your baking dish. Bake for about 20 minutes until bubbling and slightly browned at the edges. Allow standing for about 5 minutes before serving.

Enjoy this comforting side that channels Anthony Bourdain’s spirit while warming up your winter meals!

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

Serving Anthony Bourdain’s Creamed Pearl Onions can elevate any meal, especially during the colder months. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to complement this rich and savory dish.

Pair with Roasted Chicken

• Juicy roasted chicken pairs beautifully with the creamy texture of pearl onions, creating a comforting meal that feels special.

Accompany with Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes serve as a perfect base, allowing the rich sauce of the pearl onions to blend seamlessly for an indulgent experience.

Serve Alongside Grilled Vegetables

• Lightly grilled vegetables add a smoky flavor that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the pearl onions, enhancing your plate’s colors and flavors.

Complement with a Fresh Salad

• A crisp garden salad provides a refreshing balance to the richness of the dish, making it a well-rounded option for your dining experience.

Include in a Festive Buffet

• These creamed pearl onions can shine on any holiday buffet table, bringing warmth and comfort to gatherings with family and friends.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Serve with slices of crusty bread for dipping into the creamy sauce. This adds texture and makes for an enjoyable side.

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

To perfect this classic recipe, consider these helpful tips for an even better outcome.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh pearl onions and herbs will enhance the flavor profile significantly compared to dried alternatives.

• Control seasoning: Taste as you go. Adjust salt and pepper to ensure the sauce has just the right amount of flavor without overpowering the dish.

• Experiment with herbs: While sage and thyme are traditional, feel free to try rosemary or parsley for a different twist on flavor.

• Monitor baking time: Keep an eye on your dish while it bakes. You want it bubbling but not overcooked; adjust timing based on your oven’s performance.

• Let it rest: Allowing the dish to sit for about 5 minutes after baking helps meld flavors together and makes serving easier.

• Try alternative milks: For a unique touch, consider using plant-based milk options such as almond or oat milk for those looking for dairy alternatives.

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

Pairing side dishes with Anthony Bourdain’s Creamed Pearl Onions enhances the overall dining experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes seasoned with garlic provide a crunchy contrast to creamy pearl onions.

2. Sautéed Green Beans: Lightly sautéed green beans tossed with almonds offer a nutty crunch that balances out rich flavors.

3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with fresh vegetables adds nutrition and freshness to your plate.

4. Buttery Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements savory dishes well and adds vibrant color to your meal.

5. Cauliflower Gratin: This cheesy side dish pairs excellently by echoing the creaminess of the pearl onions while introducing new textures.

6. Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous flavored with herbs creates an aromatic base that absorbs all the delicious juices from your main dish.

7. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These sprouts caramelize beautifully in the oven and provide a slightly bitter note that contrasts nicely with sweet onions.

8. Spinach Salad: Fresh spinach topped with nuts and vinaigrette offers brightness that refreshes between bites of rich dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Anthony Bourdain’s Creamed Pearl Onions, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid to ensure a perfect dish.

• Skipping the blanching step: Blanching pearl onions helps loosen their skins for easy peeling. Don’t skip this step or you may find peeling them very tedious.

• Overcooking the onions: Cooking the onions too long can lead to mushiness. Simmer just until tender to maintain their texture.

• Not seasoning adequately: Seasoning is crucial for flavor. Be generous with salt and pepper in the sauce and during cooking for the best taste.

• Using cold butter: Cold butter can create lumps in your sauce. Always melt it over low heat before adding flour for a smooth consistency.

• Rushing the baking process: Baking allows the flavors to meld and develop. Give it the full 20 minutes in the oven for that perfect bubbly finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3–5 days in the refrigerator.

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

• You can freeze leftovers in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag.
• They will stay fresh for up to 2 months.

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

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake covered for about 15–20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring frequently until hot.
• Stovetop: Gently warm over low heat while stirring to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about Anthony Bourdain’s Creamed Pearl Onions, here are some commonly asked questions.

How do I peel pearl onions easily?

Blanching pearl onions in boiling water for a minute makes their skins loosen, allowing you to peel them effortlessly.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the recipe ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer, then reheat before serving.

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

These onions pair beautifully with roasted meats or as a side dish for holiday gatherings, enhancing any meal with their creamy texture.

How do I customize Anthony Bourdain’s Creamed Pearl Onions?

Feel free to add different herbs like rosemary or tarragon, or mix in vegetables such as mushrooms or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

Anthony Bourdain’s Creamed Pearl Onions are a comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to any meal. Their creamy texture and rich taste make them versatile enough to accompany various main courses. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different herbs and spices, tailoring it to your palate!

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

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8

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Description

This winter, indulge in the comforting flavors of Anthony Bourdain’s Creamed Pearl Onions. This delightful side dish features tender pearl onions enveloped in a rich béchamel sauce infused with aromatic sage and thyme. Perfect for festive gatherings or cozy family dinners, it warms the soul and elevates any meal. The combination of creamy textures and savory herbs makes this dish a must-try for anyone seeking comfort food that’s simple yet impressive. Serve it alongside roasted meats or as part of a vegetarian feast to impress your guests and create lasting memories around the table.

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Ingredients

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• 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)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and prepare an ice water bath.
2. Blanch pearl onions in boiling salted water for 1 to 2 minutes until skins loosen; transfer to the ice bath to cool, then peel.
3. In fresh water with peppercorns and bay leaves, simmer peeled onions until tender (5 to 8 minutes), then drain.
4. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over low heat; whisk in flour until bubbling, then gradually add milk while stirring until thickened (about 5 minutes). Stir in sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked onions with béchamel sauce in a baking dish; bake for about 20 minutes until bubbling and edges are golden.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 310mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 30mg