Jerusalem Artichokes Newburg

Artichokes are a versatile and delicious vegetable that can be used in a variety of recipes. In this guide, we’ll explore a flavorful and creamy dish called Creamed Artichokes with Almonds and Sherry. This recipe combines tender artichoke slices with a rich and velvety sauce made from milk, butter, flour, egg yolks, sherry, and blanched chopped almonds. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a home chef looking to impress, this recipe is sure to tantalize your taste buds. We’ll provide a list of ingredients, detailed step-by-step instructions, and valuable tips to ensure your creamed artichokes turn out perfectly.

INGREDIENTS:

• 3 cups of sliced boiled artichokes
• ½ cup of blanched chopped almonds
• 2 cups of milk
• 1 tablespoon of butter
• 1 tablespoon of flour
• 2 egg yolks
• 2 tablespoons of sherry
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Toast or pastry cases (for serving)

Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions for creating this delectable dish.

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Prepare the Artichokes: Start by slicing the boiled artichokes into bite-sized pieces. If you’re using fresh artichokes, be sure to trim, boil, and remove the tough outer leaves and choke before slicing.
2. Blanch and Chop Almonds: Blanch the almonds by briefly immersing them in boiling water and then removing their skins. Once blanched, chop the almonds into small pieces. These blanched almonds will add a delightful crunch to your dish.
3. Make the Cream Sauce: In a saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of flour to the melted butter and stir continuously to create a smooth roux. Gradually pour in 2 cups of milk while stirring to avoid lumps. Continue to cook and stir until the sauce thickens, which should take approximately 5-7 minutes.
4. Incorporate Egg Yolks: In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 egg yolks. Gradually add a small amount of the hot cream sauce to the egg yolks while whisking continuously. This step, known as tempering, prevents the yolks from curdling when added to the hot sauce. Once tempered, pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining cream sauce and continue to cook for a couple of minutes until the sauce thickens further.
5. Add Sherry and Season: Stir in 2 tablespoons of sherry to infuse a delightful depth of flavor into the sauce. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preferences.
6. Combine with Artichokes and Almonds: Gently fold the sliced boiled artichokes and blanched chopped almonds into the creamy sauce. Ensure that the artichokes and almonds are evenly coated with the sauce.
7. Serve Hot: Creamed Artichokes with Almonds and Sherry can be served in various ways. You can spoon the mixture onto toasted bread for a delectable open-faced sandwich or serve it in pastry cases for an elegant presentation.

TIPS:

• Artichoke Preparation: If you’re using fresh artichokes, it’s essential to remove the tough outer leaves, trim the tops, and scoop out the choke (the inedible center) before boiling or steaming the artichokes until tender.
• Sherry Substitute: If you don’t have sherry on hand, you can substitute it with white wine or chicken broth. The choice of liquid will influence the flavor profile of the dish.
• Texture Variation: If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use a blender or food processor to puree the sauce before adding the artichokes and almonds. This will result in a creamier consistency.
• Serving Options: Creamed Artichokes with Almonds and Sherry can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or even a light main course. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or as a topping for pasta.

This Creamed Artichokes with Almonds and Sherry recipe offers a delightful blend of creamy richness, nutty crunch, and the unique flavor of artichokes. It’s a versatile dish that can be served on various occasions, from family dinners to elegant gatherings. The addition of sherry brings a subtle depth to the sauce, making it a sophisticated choice for those looking to elevate their culinary repertoire. Enjoy this delectable creation and savor the harmonious combination of flavors and textures it offers.