Creamed Onions Inspired by Kingโs Arms Tavern
Total Time: 25 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Recipe Category: Onions
Keywords: Vegetable, < 30 Mins, Oven
This delightful recipe for creamed onions is inspired by the famous dish served at the Kingโs Arms Tavern in Colonial Williamsburg, which takes you on a culinary journey back to the 1970s, inspired by the authentic recipes that showcase traditional flavors and hearty ingredients. This version has been carefully adapted to enhance the taste while catering to those who prefer a lower-salt option, providing a creamy, nutty flavor profile that is not only comforting but also a hit at any gathering or family meal. The salted peanuts contribute a delightful crunch and saltiness, making it a wonderful side dish that pairs perfectly with roasted meats or festive holiday dinners.
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 16 | small pearl onions |
| 2 | tablespoons of butter |
| 2 | tablespoons of flour |
| 2 | cups of milk |
| 1/4 | cup of salted peanuts |
| 1/2 | cup of salted peanuts |
| 1/4 | teaspoon of salt (optional) |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 456.5 |
| Total Fat | 25.2 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8.6 g |
| Cholesterol | 32.4 mg |
| Sodium | 436.8 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 47.1 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 6.1 g |
| Sugars | 11.6 g |
| Protein | 15 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Onions: Begin by cooking the small pearl onions in a pot of boiling salted water, allowing them to simmer until they become tender, which typically takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Once cooked, carefully drain the onions and set them aside to cool slightly.
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Make the Roux: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, ensuring it does not brown. Once melted, gradually stir in the flour along with the optional salt to create a roux. Cook this mixture for approximately 2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent it from burning and to achieve a slightly nutty aroma.
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Create the Cream Sauce: Slowly pour in the milk, continuing to stir to combine thoroughly. Allow the mixture to cook, stirring consistently, until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth, which should take around 5 minutes. The sauce should be creamy and coat the back of a spoon when ready.
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Combine Ingredients: In a greased 1-quart casserole dish, carefully add the drained onions. Pour the creamy sauce over the onions, ensuring they are evenly coated. Then, fold in the whole salted peanuts for that delightful crunch.
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Top It Off: For added texture and flavor, top the onion mixture with additional crumbs or chopped salted peanuts as desired, ensuring an even layer covers the entire surface.
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Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 400ยฐF (200ยฐC). Place the casserole dish in the oven and bake for approximately 15 minutes, or until the dish is bubbly and the top is lightly browned. This final baking step enhances the flavors, melding everything together beautifully.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once out of the oven, allow the creamed onions to cool slightly before serving. This dish can be enjoyed warm, and feel free to provide a salt shaker on the table for those who might want to add a bit more salt to their taste.
This recipe offers a wonderful balance of creamy richness and crunchy texture, making it a versatile dish that complements various main courses while inviting everyone to enjoy its unique flavors. Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or as a comforting side dish, these creamed onions embody the spirit of home cooking and the warmth of shared meals.
