Carrot and fennel confit with red pepper and lemon zest
Carrot and fennel confit features slow-cooked carrots and fennel in olive oil, enhanced with red pepper spice and lemon zest. This dish offers a harmonious blend of earthy sweetness and citrusy brightness, perfect as a side or topping.
Cook time 45 min
Prep time 15 min
Ingredients:
1 bulb fennel1/8 tsp red pepper (spice)
2 carrots
1.25 cup olive oil
1/2 tsp lemon zest
Carrot and fennel confit with red pepper and lemon zest is a delightful and aromatic dish that combines the earthy sweetness of carrots and the anise-like flavor of fennel. This slow-cooked recipe in olive oil is enhanced with a hint of heat from the red pepper spice and a fresh burst of citrus from the lemon zest. Perfect as a side dish or a gourmet topping, this recipe promises a delightful blend of textures and tastes.
Instructions:
- Trim and slice the fennel bulb into thin wedges, discarding any tough outer layers.
- Peel and slice the carrots into similar-sized pieces as the fennel for even cooking.
- In a medium-sized, heavy-bottomed saucepan, pour in the olive oil.
- Warm the olive oil over medium-low heat. You want the oil to be hot but not smoking, around 180°F (82°C).
- Once the oil is heated, carefully add the fennel and carrot slices to the saucepan.
- Stir gently to ensure all pieces are evenly coated and submerged in the oil.
- Sprinkle in the red pepper evenly over the vegetables.
- Add the lemon zest, distributing it evenly.
- Reduce the heat to low and allow the vegetables to cook slowly in the oil. This should take about 45-60 minutes.
- Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent any pieces from sticking to the bottom.
- The vegetables are done when they are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork but still hold their shape.
- They should have absorbed some of the oils and flavors, turning soft but not mushy.
- Carefully remove the saucepan from the heat.
- Using a slotted spoon, transfer the confit vegetables to a serving dish, allowing any excess oil to drain back into the pan.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
- Serve the carrot and fennel confit warm or at room temperature.
- It can be served as a side dish, a topping for salads, or as an accompaniment to roasted meats or fish.
- Allow the confit to cool completely before storing.
- Transfer the vegetables and oil into an airtight container and refrigerate. The leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Carrot and fennel confit with red pepper and lemon zest is an elegantly simple recipe that elevates humble vegetables to gourmet heights. With its flavorful and aromatic profile, this dish is a great way to enjoy the natural sweetness and texture of carrots and fennel, enhanced perfectly by olive oil, a hint of spice, and refreshing citrus. It's a versatile recipe that can effortlessly enhance a variety of meals, whether as a star side dish or a complementary topping.
Carrot and fennel confit with red pepper and lemon zest FAQ:
This recipe involves slow cooking on the stovetop rather than baking. The vegetables should be cooked in olive oil over low heat for about 45-60 minutes until tender.
The vegetables are done when they are tender and easily pierced with a fork but still maintain their shape. They should have absorbed some oil and flavors but not be mushy.
Allow the confit to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator, where it will keep for up to one week.
Yes, you can substitute other root vegetables like parsnips or turnips for a different flavor profile, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary based on the vegetable's firmness.
You can use smoked paprika or sweet paprika instead of red pepper for flavor without the heat, or simply reduce the amount of red pepper used to suit your taste.
Tips:
- Use high-quality olive oil to ensure the best flavor as it is a significant part of the dish.
- Thinly slice the fennel and carrots for even cooking and a more tender texture.
- Keep the heat low while cooking to prevent the oil from overheating and to ensure the vegetables cook slowly and evenly.
- Taste the confit before serving and adjust seasoning if necessary, you might want to add a little more red pepper or lemon zest according to your preference.
- Serve the confit warm or at room temperature for the best experience. It can be a great addition to salads, sandwiches, or as a side dish to grilled meats.
Nutrition per serving
4 ServingsCalories 30kcal
Protein 1.02g
Carbohydrates 7g
Fiber 2.68g
Sugar 3.75g
Fat 70g
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