Although similar in shape, parsnips provide a pleasant contrast to carrots' flavor.
Roasted carrot and parsnip mash has a distinctive rustic appearance and smooth, refined texture that makes it a special, yet often overlooked, preparation -- particularly when made in-season. Carrots and parsnips are at the height of flavor and texture during cool months, usually between October and November. The sweetness of the carrots partners well with the peppery bite of the parsnips, and, when roasted and combined with a touch of cream and good butter, results in a rich puree that makes an ideal accompaniment to nearly any dish. Add this to my Recipe Box.
Instructions
1. Fill a large mixing bowl with 1 gallon of water and 2 tbsp. of lemon juice. Peel the carrots and parsnips.
2. Slice the parsnips and carrots in 1/2-inch thick pieces, placing each in the acidulated water after cutting. Strain the water from the carrots and parsnips and dry the mixing bowl. Heat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
3. Return the carrots and parsnips to the mixing bowl. Add 1/4 cup of olive oil and toss to coat. Season the parsnips and carrots to taste with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper and toss to coat.
4. Arrange the carrots and parsnips in an even layer on a sheet pan and place them in the oven. Roast them until golden and tender, approximately 30 minutes. Remove the sheet pan, place it on a wire rack and set aside.
5. Heat 1/2 cup of heavy cream in a saucepan over low heat for three minutes. Adjust the heat to the lowest setting and hold warm. Melt 1 tbsp. of unsalted butter over low heat and hold warm. Place the parsnips and carrots in the bowl of a stand mixer, or place them in a mixing bowl and use a hand-blender.
6. Attach the whisk attachment to the stand mixer and add 1 tbsp. of warm cream and half of the warm butter. Adjust the speed to low and mix for three minutes.
7. Taste the carrot and parsnip mash and adjust the seasoning as needed. Adjust the consistency as needed with warm butter and cream. Finish by mixing for three more minutes and folding in the fresh herbs of your choice.
Tags: mixing bowl, carrots parsnips, parsnips carrots, carrot parsnip mash, carrots parsnips mixing, hold warm
