Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 lbs pearl onions, peeled
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Oven-safe baking dish
- Whisk
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pearl onions and cook for 5-7 minutes, until tender. Drain and set aside.
3. In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly until the mixture is smooth and thickened.
5. Add salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Stir to combine.
6. Add the cooked pearl onions to the pot and stir to coat with the sauce.
7. Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe baking dish.
8. In a small bowl, mix together the Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs. Sprinkle the mixture over the top of the onions.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 210
Fat per serving: 9g
Carbohydrates per serving: 26g
Protein per serving: 9g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Pearl onions can be substituted with shallots or small white onions.
- Whole milk can be substituted with low-fat milk or cream.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with Gruyere or Cheddar cheese.
- Breadcrumbs can be substituted with panko or crushed crackers.
Variations:
- Add cooked bacon or ham for a meaty version.
- Add sliced mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
- Top with sliced almonds or chopped herbs for added texture and flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- To make peeling pearl onions easier, blanch them in boiling water for 30 seconds and then transfer them to an ice bath.
- To make the sauce thicker, add more flour.
- To make the sauce thinner, add more milk.
- To make the gratin more crispy, broil it for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
Storage instructions:
Store leftover gratin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat the gratin in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the gratin in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
Garnishes:
Garnish with chopped parsley or chives.
Pairings:
Pair with roasted chicken, steak, or fish.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
Troubleshooting advice:
If the sauce is too thick, add more milk. If the sauce is too thin, add more flour.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to wash your hands and all utensils before and after handling raw onions.
Food history:
Gratin dishes originated in French cuisine and typically consist of a creamy sauce and a crispy topping.
Flavor profiles:
The pearl onion gratin is creamy, savory, and slightly sweet.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the gratin as a side dish or as a main course with a side salad.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: French