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Asparagus and Parmesan Puddings

4.4

(14)

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Asparagus and Parmesan PuddingsBrian Leatart

(Sformati di Asparagi e Parmigiano)

Sformato, which is a cross between a savory custard and a soufflé, can be made from a number of different vegetables. Asparagus is ideal and a Tuscan favorite — particularly in April and May when it is at its best. Serve these puddings as a first course or as a side dish; or accompany them with a salad for brunch or a light supper.

Recipe information

  • Yield

    Makes 8 puddings

Ingredients

1/2 cup fresh breadcrumbs made from crustless Italian bread
2 pounds asparagus, trimmed
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (about 3 ounces)
1/2 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
1/4 cup all purpose flour
4 large eggs

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Butter eight 3/4-cup custard cups or soufflé dishes. Coat with breadcrumbs. Cut off asparagus tips. Cook tips in large saucepan of boiling salted water until crisp-tender, about 3 minutes. Drain; reserve tips and 1 cup cooking liquid. Coarsely chop asparagus stalks.

    Step 2

    Melt butter in large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add onion; sauté until tender, about 6 minutes. Add stalks; sauté until crisp-tender, about 5 minutes. Add reserved asparagus cooking liquid. Cover; simmer until stalks are tender, about 12 minutes.

    Step 3

    Uncover; cook until liquid is absorbed, stirring often, about 5 minutes. Transfer to food processor; puree. Add Parmesan, ricotta and flour. Using on/off turns, process just until blended. Season with salt and pepper.

    Step 4

    Whisk eggs in bowl to blend. Add asparagus puree; whisk to blend. Stir in all but 16 asparagus tips. Divide custard among cups. Place cups in roasting pan. (Can be made 6 hours ahead. Cover; chill puddings and remaining asparagus tips.)

    Step 5

    Preheat oven to 350°F. Pour hot water into pan to come 1 inch up sides of cups. Bake puddings until set, about 35 minutes. Let stand 10 minutes. Invert onto plates. Garnish with asparagus tips.

TagsSouffléDessertCustardItalianEuropeanAsparagusVegetableParmesanCheeseDairyRicottaStarterMainSideDinnerBrunchNut FreeVegetarianOven BakeFood ProcessorSummerBon Appétit
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