Creamed Pearl Onions

Name: Creamed Pearl Onions
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds pearl onions (Small, sweet onions); 6 leaves sage, finely chopped (Fresh herbs enhance flavor); 1/2 teaspoon thyme, finely chopped (Fresh thyme preferred); 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (For making the creamy sauce); 2 2/3 cups whole milk (Provides creaminess); 2 teaspoons black peppercorns (For flavoring the onions); Kosher salt, to taste (For seasoning); Ground black pepper, to taste (For seasoning); 2 leaves bay leaves (For simmering with onions); 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (Thickens the sauce)

Creamed pearl onions serve as a delightful side dish that brings comfort and flavor to any meal. These small, sweet onions are enveloped in a rich and creamy sauce that perfectly balances their gentle savor. The luscious mixture, infused with herbs like sage and thyme, elevates a simple vegetable to gourmet status. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy family dinner, this recipe for creamed pearl onions is a must-try.

Why make this recipe? Creamed pearl onions are not only delicious, but they also offer a great way to showcase seasonal ingredients. They can complement various main courses, whether it’s roasted meat, poultry, or even a vegetarian dish. Their unique taste and creamy texture make them a favorite among both adults and children. Additionally, the preparation is relatively simple, allowing even novice cooks to impress their guests. The use of fresh herbs elevates the dish, creating a homemade feel that is often missing in store-bought sides.

How to make Creamed Pearl Onions

Making creamed pearl onions is an enjoyable and rewarding experience that yields a tasty dish your family and friends will love. The recipe involves several steps, but each one brings you closer to a beautifully baked dish that is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

2 pounds pearl onions
6 sage leaves, finely chopped
1/2 teaspoon thyme, finely chopped
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 2/3 cups whole milk
2 teaspoons black peppercorns
Kosher salt, to taste
Ground black pepper, to taste
2 bay leaves
1/4 cup all-purpose flour

Directions:

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F. The initial preparation involves blanching the pearl onions to loosen their skins. Fill a large bowl with ice water and set it aside for cooling the onions. Then, bring a large pot of water to a boil, adding one tablespoon of kosher salt. Once boiling, add the pearl onions and blanch them for 1–2 minutes. This step makes it easy to peel the onions as the skins loosen.

Using a slotted spoon, remove the blanched onions and immediately transfer them to the ice water bath. This will stop the cooking process. After they cool, drain the onions and pat them dry. Once dried, trim the root ends and peel off the skins to reveal the sweet pearl onions inside.

Now, return the saucepan of water to a boil. Add black peppercorns and bay leaves for flavoring. Once boiling, add the peeled onions and let them simmer on moderately high heat for 5 to 8 minutes, until they become just tender. After simmering, drain the onions thoroughly again and pat them dry before arranging them in a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Meanwhile, prepare the creamy sauce. In a medium saucepan over moderately low heat, melt the butter. Then, add the flour and cook, stirring constantly for about 3 minutes, until the mixture begins to bubble and takes on a light color. Gradually whisk in the whole milk, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, which usually takes about 5 minutes.

Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the chopped sage and thyme. Don’t forget to season generously with kosher salt and ground black pepper to taste. Pour this delicious sauce evenly over the arranged onions in the baking dish, ensuring each onion is well-coated.

Finally, place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes. You’ll know they are done when the sauce is bubbling and the edges turn a lovely golden color. After removing the dish from the oven, let it stand for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together even more beautifully.

Time Breakdown

Preparing creamed pearl onions can take a total of about 45 minutes, including all the prep and cooking time. Here’s a simple breakdown:

Blanching and peeling onions: 10 minutes
Simmering onions: 8 minutes
Preparing and cooking the sauce: 10 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes

Considering all, dedicated cooks can comfortably prepare this delightful dish in under an hour.

How to serve Creamed Pearl Onions

Creamed pearl onions can be served alongside a variety of main dishes. Their creamy texture pairs beautifully with roasted meats, providing a balance to the savory flavors of meats such as beef or turkey. They also shine next to baked chicken or even a hearty vegetarian entrée.

To serve, ladle the creamy onion mixture into individual serving bowls or onto a large platter for a family-style meal. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired, adding a touch of color and freshness to the dish.

How to store Creamed Pearl Onions

If you find yourself with leftovers or want to prepare this dish in advance, storing creamed pearl onions is straightforward. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.

To reheat, simply place the desired amount in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, leftovers can be reheated in the microwave, ensuring they are heated evenly.

Tips to make Creamed Pearl Onions

To elevate your creamed pearl onions even further, consider these helpful tips. First, use fresh herbs for the best flavor; dried herbs can be substituted if necessary, but fresh offers a brightness that enhances the dish.

Additionally, you can experiment with different types of cheese. Adding a bit of grated Parmesan into the sauce gives it an extra layer of flavor and richness. Don’t hesitate to adjust the seasoning to your liking, ensuring the balance is just right for your palate.

Variation

For those who wish to add some additional flavors, consider:

Mixing in a handful of sautéed mushrooms for an earthy component.
Incorporating garlic to the sauce for a robust flavor depth.
Adding a splash of white wine to the sauce for added complexity.

Each variation can bring a unique twist to this already delightful dish, allowing it to be personalized to your taste preferences.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

For a standard serving of creamed pearl onions, you can expect approximately the following nutritional information:

Calories: 220
Total Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 35mg
Sodium: 400mg
Total Carbohydrates: 28g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 4g
Protein: 4g

Keep in mind that these values can vary based on specific ingredient brands and quantities used.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen pearl onions instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen pearl onions can be used as a convenient alternative. You may not need to blanch them, as they are often pre-cooked. Just adjust your cooking time accordingly.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it before serving for the best taste experience.

3. Are there any good substitutions for milk?
For a lactose-free version, you can substitute whole milk with almond, soy, or oat milk. For a richer flavor, consider using half-and-half if lactose is not an issue.

Creamed pearl onions are a classic dish that brings a touch of elegance and comfort to any table. With their sweet flavor and creamy sauce, they are sure to become a beloved staple in your culinary repertoire. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll discover a delightful harmony of textures and tastes that everyone will enjoy.