Classic French
Pan-fried parsnips
crucial for Christmas
Prep 15 minsCook 25 minsServes 10
It might surprise you to know that the parsnip belongs to the same family as carrots and parsley. It has been used as a vegetable in Europe since Roman times and as a sweetener before the advent of cane sugar. Parsnips are delicious - sweet and earthy - but they are also very good for you. They are very rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly potassium, and they are thought to have anti-inflammatory properties. Parsnips are a crucial vegetable accompaniment for any Christmas dinner.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 5 (800g)Parsnips, peeled, trimmed, each cut lengthways into 4 pieces
- 4 tspButter, unsalted
- Sea salt and freshly ground pepper
Method
- 1
Over a medium heat, warm your oven proof pan.
Add the butter to the pan and bring the butter to a foaming stage.
Add the parsnips and lightly colour all over for 5 minutes.
Season with salt and pepper and transfer the pan to the oven to finish the cooking for 5-8 minutes.
Chef's Tips
“"The foaming butter should turn light brown and smell nutty. It is important to let it reach this stage so that it will slowly caramelise the parsnips. But don’t let the butter burn, or it will become carcinogenic and indigestible, besides tasting unpleasant." "Parsnips are high in sugar and could over caramelise - use a timer to ensure that you do not forget them in the oven!" "You could add some honey and lemon to the parsnips or some seeds such as cumin or caraway seeds."
Cooking is always an expression of care and generosity. Enjoy this dish.
Bon appétit!