Picadilly’s Carrot Souffle
Description
One of the most-often-requested recipes from Piccadilly Cafeterias. This delightful carrot souffle has been cherished by many for its sweet, irresistible flavor, making it a surefire way to get kids to eat their carrots. While it may not be the healthiest due to its high sugar content, its delicious taste makes it a beloved treat.
Recipe Details
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Recipe Category: Vegetable
- Keywords: Low Protein, Kid Friendly, Weeknight, Oven, < 4 Hours
- Servings: 6
- Calories per Serving: 335.9 kcal
- Fat Content: 17.9 g
- Saturated Fat Content: 4 g
- Cholesterol Content: 93 mg
- Sodium Content: 396.4 mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 40.4 g
- Fiber Content: 3.8 g
- Sugar Content: 31.5 g
- Protein Content: 4.8 g
Ingredients
- 1 3/4 lbs carrots
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 lb margarine (or 1/2 cup)
- Powdered sugar for sprinkling
Instructions
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Prepare the Carrots:
- Steam or boil the carrots until they are extra soft. This ensures that the souffle has a smooth and creamy texture.
- Drain the carrots well to remove excess water.
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Mixing Ingredients:
- While the carrots are still warm, add the sugar, baking powder, and vanilla extract. The warmth of the carrots helps to dissolve the sugar and meld the flavors together.
- Use a mixer to whip the carrots and these ingredients until smooth, ensuring there are no lumps.
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Add Flour:
- Add the all-purpose flour to the carrot mixture and blend well. The flour helps to bind the ingredients together, giving the souffle its structure.
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Incorporate Eggs:
- In a separate bowl, whip the eggs until they are frothy. This step is crucial as it adds air to the eggs, which helps the souffle to rise.
- Add the whipped eggs to the carrot mixture, blending thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of the eggs.
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Add Margarine:
- Melt the margarine and blend it into the mixture. The margarine adds richness and moisture to the souffle.
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Prepare for Baking:
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish, filling it about halfway. It’s important not to overfill the dish as the souffle will rise during baking.
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Baking:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the souffle for about 1 hour, or until the top is light brown and the souffle has risen beautifully.
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Finishing Touch:
- Once baked, remove the souffle from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Sprinkle lightly with powdered sugar before serving to add a touch of sweetness and a delicate finish.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 335.9 kcal
- Total Fat: 17.9 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 93 mg
- Sodium: 396.4 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40.4 g
- Dietary Fiber: 3.8 g
- Sugars: 31.5 g
- Protein: 4.8 g
Tips and Variations
- Healthier Alternative: For a healthier version, consider reducing the amount of sugar or substituting it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. You can also use butter instead of margarine for a more natural fat source.
- Texture Variations: If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can mash the carrots by hand instead of using a mixer. This will give the souffle a more rustic feel.
- Flavor Enhancements: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture for a warm, spiced flavor. You can also incorporate a bit of orange zest for a citrusy twist.
Serving Suggestions
- Main Course Pairing: Serve this carrot souffle as a delightful side dish with roasted meats, such as a succulent roast chicken or a juicy pork tenderloin.
- Vegetarian Meal: Pair it with a hearty salad and some crusty bread for a light, vegetarian meal.
- Holiday Feast: This dish is perfect for holiday gatherings, offering a sweet and savory option that complements traditional holiday fare.
Origin and Inspiration
This recipe is inspired by the beloved carrot souffle served at Piccadilly Cafeterias, a staple in Southern dining. The recipe was discovered in the online edition of the Baton Rouge Advocate, a testament to its popularity and enduring appeal. The souffle’s sweetness and creamy texture make it a hit with children and adults alike, ensuring that even the pickiest eaters will enjoy their vegetables.
Final Thoughts
Picadilly’s Carrot Souffle is a nostalgic dish that brings comfort and joy to any meal. Its sweet, velvety texture and delightful flavor make it a standout side dish that can easily become a family favorite. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this carrot souffle is sure to impress and satisfy all who taste it. Enjoy this delectable dish and the smiles it brings to your table.