Parsnip & Caramelized Onion Gratin Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Description: Don’t be afraid of the prunes – they add wonderful flavor to the parsnips and onions! When arranging the parsnips, take care to create an attractive design for a stunning presentation. Ensure a double layer of parsnips on top to account for shrinkage during cooking.
Recipe Category: Onions
Keywords: Vegetable, Low Protein, Low Cholesterol, Healthy, Oven, Less than 4 Hours
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 246.8
- Fat Content: 3.5g
- Saturated Fat Content: 0.6g
- Cholesterol Content: 0mg
- Sodium Content: 591.4mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 52.4g
- Fiber Content: 11.3g
- Sugar Content: 20.1g
- Protein Content: 5.3g
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 2 | onions |
| 2 | prunes |
| 1/2 | teaspoon thyme |
| 1 1/2 | teaspoons salt |
| 1/2 | teaspoon pepper |
| 1 1/2 | pounds parsnips |
| (approximately 6-8 medium parsnips) | |
| 1/2 cup chicken broth | |
| 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth |
Instructions:
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray a 1 1/2 quart gratin dish or other low baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or lightly wipe with vegetable oil.
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Caramelize Onions: In a skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onions and cook, stirring frequently, until golden brown and caramelized, about 10 minutes.
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Prepare Onion Prune Mixture: Stir in prunes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well and remove from heat.
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Assemble the Gratin: Spread half of the parsnips in the bottom of the gratin dish. Top evenly with the caramelized onion prune mixture. Arrange the remaining parsnip slices on top in a double layer to cover the dish.
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Add Broth: Pour chicken broth and vegetable broth evenly over the parsnips.
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Bake: Cover the gratin dish tightly with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until the parsnips are tender and cooked through.
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Broil for Golden Crust: Remove the foil and baste the top of the gratin with some of the cooking juices. Place under the broiler for a few minutes until the top is nicely browned and caramelized.
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Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This dish is best enjoyed piping hot.
Recipe Notes:
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Parsnips: Choose medium-sized parsnips that are firm and free from soft spots. Peel them thoroughly before slicing.
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Caramelizing Onions: Take the time to properly caramelize the onions until they are deeply golden and sweet, as this enhances the overall flavor of the gratin.
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Prunes: Don’t omit the prunes—they add a delightful sweetness and depth to the dish that complements the earthiness of the parsnips.
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Basting: Basting the gratin with the cooking juices during baking helps to keep the top layer moist and flavorful, while broiling adds a beautiful caramelized crust.
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Serving: Serve this gratin as a hearty side dish with roasted meats or as a main course for a vegetarian meal. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables.
This Parsnip & Caramelized Onion Gratin combines the sweetness of caramelized onions and prunes with the earthy flavor of parsnips, creating a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The careful layering of ingredients and the addition of flavorful broths ensure that each bite is rich and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a healthy vegetable side or a delicious vegetarian main course, this gratin will surely become a favorite at your table!
