Cardoons in Almond Sauce

Cardoon in Almond Sauce | Thermomix Recipe

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4 | Recipe Categories: Side Dish, Vegetarian | Cuisine: Spanish

Nutrition Facts (per serving):
Calories 320 kcal | Fat 22 g | Carbs 26 g | Protein 6 g

A Heartwarming Classic

Are you in the mood for a comforting dish that brings back memories from grandma’s kitchen? The Cardoon in Almond Sauce is just what you need! This traditional dish is often enjoyed during the holiday season, showcasing the delicate flavors of cardoons complemented by a rich, creamy almond sauce. With its exquisite texture and elegant presentation, it’s perfect as a side or a main course for any special occasion.

Using a Thermomix makes preparing this classic dish not only simple but also ensures stunning results. From the perfectly cooked cardoons to a velvety sauce that will wow your guests, each step is designed to bring out the maximum flavor without any hassle. Let’s roll up our sleeves and get cooking!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450 g) fresh cardoons (or canned, drained, and rinsed)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (to prevent oxidation)
• 1 liter (4 cups) water
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (for the sauce)
• 4 oz (100 g) blanched almonds, crushed
• 2 cups (500 ml) reserved cooking liquid
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Sliced toasted almonds (for garnish)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cardoons:

1. Clean and Cut: If using fresh cardoons, cut them into 2-inch pieces and soak them in cold water with lemon juice to prevent browning.
2. In the Thermomix bowl, add 4 cups of water and 1 tablespoon of flour (this helps maintain the color). Set to Varoma temperature, Speed 1 for 6 minutes.
3. Add the cardoon pieces into the bowl. Set to 100ºC (212ºF), Speed 1, reverse for 30 minutes. If your model doesn’t have reverse, use the butterfly whisk.
4. Check the cardoons for tenderness. Once cooked, drain and set aside, keeping the cooking liquid.

2. Prepare the Almond Sauce:

1. In the same Thermomix bowl, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Set to 100ºC (212ºF), Speed 1 for 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 2 minutes at 100ºC (212ºF), Speed 1.
3. Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of flour around the blades. Cook for 1 minute at 100ºC (212ºF), Speed 1.
4. Stir in the crushed almonds and 2 cups of reserved cooking liquid. Set to 100ºC (212ºF), Speed 4 for 5 minutes to thicken.
5. Blend the sauce to a smooth consistency by setting to Speed 5-10 for 20 seconds until it’s fine and creamy.

3. Combine Cardoons and Sauce:

1. Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste.
2. Add the cooked cardoons to the sauce and set to 100ºC (212ºF), reverse, spoon speed for 5 minutes. If needed, adjust the sauce consistency with more cooking liquid.

4. Serve and Garnish:

1. Transfer the cardoons smothered in sauce to a serving dish.
2. Garnish with toasted almond slices and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a beautiful presentation.

Tips for a Perfect Dish:

• Choosing Cardoons: Using canned cardoons can save you time. Just be sure to drain and rinse them thoroughly.
• Sauce Consistency: Adjust the thickness of your sauce by changing the amount of cooking liquid—less for thick, more for thinner.
• Extra Flavor: Consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or white pepper to the sauce for an extra kick.
• Ideal Pairings: This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed potatoes or a crusty loaf of rustic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Storing Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. The sauce flavors will deepen over time!

Bring the flavors of Spanish tradition to your table with this delightful recipe. Get ready for compliments when you serve this delicious dish at your next gathering! 🌱✨