Creamed Whole Onions is a classic dish that adds a touch of elegance and flavor to any meal. With its creamy texture and savory taste, it’s perfect for special occasions like Christmas dinner or even just a cozy weeknight meal. This recipe serves approximately 8 to 10 people and requires just over an hour of total preparation and cooking time.
To begin, gather your ingredients:
- 8 to 10 onions
- 16 to 20 cloves
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 sprig of thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cups water
- Bread crumbs and grated cheese for topping
Now, let’s dive into the detailed instructions for creating this delectable dish:
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Start by preparing the onions. Peel each onion and stud them with 2 cloves each. This not only adds flavor but also gives the dish a lovely presentation.
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Place the prepared onions in a saucepan and cover them with water. Add the 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter, along with the thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper to the saucepan.
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Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the onions simmer for about 1 hour. During this time, the liquid should reduce by about half, intensifying the flavors.
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While the onions are simmering, it’s time to prepare the white sauce. In a separate saucepan, melt the 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously until the mixture is smooth and bubbly, about 1 to 2 minutes.
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Gradually pour in the cooking liquid from the onions, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency, about 5 to 7 minutes.
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Once the sauce is ready, remove the saucepan from the heat and set it aside.
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Preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit (230 degrees Celsius).
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Once the onions have finished simmering, carefully drain them and arrange them in a baking dish.
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Pour the prepared white sauce over the drained onions, ensuring that they are evenly coated.
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Sprinkle bread crumbs and grated cheese over the top of the onions. This adds a crunchy texture and a delicious cheesy flavor to the dish.
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Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
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Once the Creamed Whole Onions are beautifully browned and bubbling, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
Creamed Whole Onions are a delightful side dish that pairs perfectly with roasted meats, poultry, or even as a standalone vegetarian option. With its creamy sauce, tender onions, and crunchy topping, it’s sure to become a favorite at your next gathering. Enjoy!
