🧅 Audrey’s Creamed Onions 🥣
Audrey’s Creamed Onions is a classic and delightful side dish that often makes an appearance on Thanksgiving and holiday dinner tables. This rich and creamy dish combines tender onions with a luscious cream sauce, creating a sweet and savory flavor that pairs wonderfully with roasted meats and other festive dishes.
📜 History:
The exact origin of Audrey’s Creamed Onions is not well-documented, but creamed onion recipes have been a part of American culinary tradition for decades. It’s likely that variations of this dish have been enjoyed by families for generations. Audrey’s Creamed Onions could have been named after someone’s beloved family cook or chef, adding a personal touch to a classic recipe.
🥦 Components:
- 1 pound of small white or pearl onions
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1/2 cup of chicken or vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
👩🍳 Steps to Prepare Audrey’s Creamed Onions:
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Preparation: Peel the onions. You can blanch them in boiling water for a minute to make peeling easier. Cut a small X at the root end of each onion, which helps them cook more evenly.
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Cook the Onions: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the peeled onions and sauté them until they turn golden brown and slightly caramelized.
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Make the Cream Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir to coat. Cook for a minute or two to remove the raw flour taste. Then, gradually add the heavy cream and chicken or vegetable broth, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
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Season: Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired. Nutmeg adds a subtle warmth to the dish.
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Simmer: Reduce the heat and let the onions simmer in the creamy sauce for about 10-15 minutes, or until the onions are tender and the sauce has thickened to your liking.
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Garnish and Serve: Before serving, you can garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
⏰ Time Needed:
The total time needed to prepare Audrey’s Creamed Onions is around 30-40 minutes. It may vary depending on your cooking skills and the size of the onions.
This delicious side dish is a crowd-pleaser and adds a touch of comfort to any holiday meal. It’s a perfect example of the kind of comfort food that brings families together during special occasions, and the creamy, flavorful sauce perfectly complements the sweetness of the onions. Enjoy your cooking, and don’t forget to add that personal touch to make Audrey’s Creamed Onions your own! 😊🍽️👩🍳
🍽️ Nutrition Facts and Health Information for Audrey’s Creamed Onions 🥣
While Audrey’s Creamed Onions are undeniably delicious and comforting, it’s essential to be mindful of the nutritional aspects, especially if you’re concerned about health or dietary restrictions. Here are some general nutrition facts and health considerations:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate – Per Serving):
- Calories: 200-250 calories per serving (varies based on serving size and specific recipe)
- Fat: 15-20 grams
- Saturated Fat: 10-12 grams
- Carbohydrates: 10-15 grams
- Protein: 2-4 grams
- Fiber: 1-2 grams
- Sugars: 3-5 grams
- Sodium: 150-300 milligrams (varies based on seasoning and broth)
It’s important to note that these values can vary significantly based on the exact ingredients used and portion sizes. Here are some health considerations:
Health Information:
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Caloric Content: Audrey’s Creamed Onions are relatively high in calories due to the cream and butter. If you’re watching your calorie intake, be mindful of portion sizes.
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Fat and Saturated Fat: The dish contains a significant amount of fat, primarily from the cream and butter. While fats are essential for flavor and texture, overconsumption of saturated fats may not be suitable for those with dietary restrictions or heart health concerns.
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Carbohydrates: Creamed onions contain moderate carbohydrates, primarily from the onions and the flour used for thickening. Carbohydrates provide energy, but if you’re following a low-carb diet, you may want to enjoy this dish in moderation.
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Protein: Audrey’s Creamed Onions are not a significant source of protein. If you’re looking to increase your protein intake, consider pairing this side dish with a protein-rich main course.
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Sodium: The sodium content can vary depending on the seasoning and broth used. High sodium intake may not be suitable for individuals with hypertension or those watching their salt intake.
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Fiber: This dish is not particularly high in fiber. If you’re looking to increase your fiber intake, consider adding more vegetables or whole grains to your meal.
In summary, Audrey’s Creamed Onions are a delicious indulgence for special occasions, but they are not considered a low-calorie or low-fat dish. If you’re concerned about the nutritional aspects, you can modify the recipe by using lower-fat dairy alternatives or smaller portions. As with any dish, moderation and balance in your overall diet are key to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Enjoy your creamy onions in a way that aligns with your dietary goals and preferences! 😊🍽️🥦🥄
