cookRoasted Onion and Chestnut Compote

Roasted onions and chestnuts are simmered in cream with cognac in an adaptation of a dish from chef Mary Sue Milliken. From: Saveur SERVES 6-8

2 lb. small white and red onions, such as cipolline or pearl, unpeeled, trimmed
¼ cup olive oil
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
4 oz. thick-cut bacon, cut into ¼" strips
½ cup brandy or cognac
1 lb. fresh chestnuts, peeled and quartered, or one 15-oz. jar whole roasted chestnuts, drained
1½ cups heavy cream

Heat oven to 350°. Toss onions in oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet; spread into an even layer. Bake, stirring occasionally, until tender and browned, 30–40 minutes; let cool, then peel.

Heat bacon in a 12" skillet; cook, stirring occasionally, until crisp, 8–10 minutes. Pour fat from pan and save for future use. Pull pan off heat and add brandy; return to heat and carefully ignite with a match. Cook until flame subsides, about 1 minute. Add onions, chestnuts, cream, salt, and pepper; simmer until cream is reduced by half, 12–15 minutes.

Valid HTML 4.01 Transitional Copyright © 2009 Hazelnet & Styleshout Valid CSS!