Carrots à la Crème

Carrots à la Crème Recipe - French Cuisine | Ingredients: Butter, Onion, Flour, Parsley, Half and Half, Egg, Salt

Region / culture: France | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Carrots à la Crème is a classic French dish that combines the sweetness of carrots with the richness of cream. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or as a side dish for a family dinner.

History

Carrots à la Crème has been a popular dish in French cuisine for centuries. The combination of carrots and cream creates a delicious and comforting dish that is loved by many.

Ingredients

2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp shredded onion
4 cups shredded carrot (large shred or sliced)
1 tbsp flour
0.25 cup chopped fresh parsley
1.25 cups half and half
1 egg, beaten
0.25 tsp salt and pepper

How to prepare

Cook the carrots until they are crisp and tender, then drain them.
Melt the butter, add the onion and carrots, and cook them until they are well-cooked.
Place the cooked mixture in a 9-inch round baking dish.
In a separate bowl, combine the half and half, egg, salt, and pepper.
Pour the mixture over the cooked carrots in the baking dish.
Take the flour and parsley, and sprinkle them over the top of the dish.
Bake for 30 minutes, or until the dish is set.
Brush the top with melted butter.

Variations

Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top before baking for a cheesy twist.
Substitute the half and half with coconut milk for a dairy-free version of this dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the carrots until they are crisp-tender to ensure they are not overcooked.

- Adding a touch of flour and parsley to the dish before baking adds a nice texture and flavor.

- Brushing the top with melted butter before serving adds a beautiful shine to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Carrots à la Crème can be served as a side dish with roasted chicken or beef. It pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the carrots until they are crisp-tender to maintain their texture and flavor.

- Baking the dish allows the flavors to meld together and creates a creamy and delicious dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use olive oil instead of butter for a healthier option.

- Substitute the fresh parsley with dried parsley if fresh is not available.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the Carrots à la Crème ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. This dish can also be frozen for later use.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Carrots à la Crème in a decorative baking dish for a beautiful presentation. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for added color.

Pairing Recommendations

Carrots à la Crème pairs well with a variety of main dishes, such as roasted chicken, beef tenderloin, or grilled fish. Serve with a glass of white wine or sparkling water for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Carrots à la Crème in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Carrots à la Crème contains approximately 250 calories. This dish can be enjoyed as part of a balanced meal.

Carbohydrates

Carrots are a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy for the body. This dish is a great way to incorporate healthy carbohydrates into your diet.

Fats

The butter and half and half in this dish provide a rich and creamy texture. While these ingredients are high in fats, they can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Proteins

The egg in this dish provides a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.

Vitamins and minerals

Carrots are rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin K, and potassium. These nutrients are important for overall health and well-being.

Alergens

This dish contains dairy (butter and half and half) and eggs, which may be allergens for some individuals. Be sure to check for any allergies before serving.

Summary

Carrots à la Crème is a delicious and nutritious dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. Enjoy this dish as part of a well-rounded meal.

Summary

Carrots à la Crème is a classic French dish that combines the sweetness of carrots with the richness of cream. This dish is easy to make and can be enjoyed as a side dish or a main course. Try this delicious recipe for a comforting and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately hooked. It was a sunny day in the spring, and I was visiting my dear friend Marguerite for a cup of tea. As we sat at her kitchen table, catching up on each other's lives, she suddenly got up and disappeared into her pantry. When she emerged, she was holding a large bunch of fresh carrots, their vibrant orange color practically glowing in the sunlight.

"Have you ever tried Carrots à la Crème?" Marguerite asked, a mischievous twinkle in her eye.

I shook my head, intrigued by the sound of the dish. Marguerite explained that it was a simple yet elegant French recipe that her own grandmother had passed down to her. She began to peel and slice the carrots with practiced ease, her hands moving deftly as she shared the story of how she had learned to make the dish.

"It all started when I was a young girl, just learning my way around the kitchen," Marguerite began. "My grandmother was an amazing cook, and she had a vast collection of recipes that she had acquired over the years. One day, she decided to teach me how to make Carrots à la Crème, a dish that she said was a family favorite."

As Marguerite continued to chop the carrots, she recounted how her grandmother had guided her through the recipe, patiently explaining each step and offering helpful tips along the way. Together, they had simmered the carrots in a rich cream sauce, seasoned with a touch of nutmeg and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. The smell that wafted through the kitchen was heavenly, and by the time the dish was finished, Marguerite knew that she had found a new favorite recipe.

From that day on, Carrots à la Crème became a staple in Marguerite's kitchen. She made it for special occasions and simple weeknight dinners alike, always savoring the memories of cooking with her beloved grandmother. As she shared the finished dish with me that day, I could taste the love and tradition that had gone into its creation.

Inspired by Marguerite's story, I knew that I had to learn how to make Carrots à la Crème for myself. I asked her to teach me the recipe, and she happily agreed, passing down the knowledge that had been handed down to her. Together, we chopped and simmered, stirred and seasoned, until a steaming bowl of Carrots à la Crème sat before us, ready to be enjoyed.

As I took my first bite, I felt a wave of nostalgia wash over me. The creamy sauce coated the tender carrots, the flavors melding together in perfect harmony. It was a taste of tradition, a connection to the past that brought me closer to my own roots. I knew that this recipe would become a cherished part of my own culinary repertoire, something to pass down to future generations.

And so, thanks to Marguerite and her grandmother's recipe, Carrots à la Crème became a beloved dish in my own kitchen. Each time I make it, I am reminded of the love and history that goes into every bite, a reminder of the power of food to connect us to our past and to each other.

As I sit here now, enjoying a bowl of Carrots à la Crème, I am grateful for the memories that this dish evokes. It is a testament to the enduring power of family recipes, of the stories and traditions that they carry with them. And as I savor each delicious mouthful, I am filled with a sense of joy and gratitude for the gift of cooking and sharing food with those we love.