Carrot Souffle with Brown Sugar Recipe

Cook Time: 75 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 pounds carrots, peeled and chopped
• cup margarine
• 3 eggs
• cup brown sugar
• cup flour
• 1 teaspoons baking powder
• teaspoon baking soda

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350F (175C).
2. In a large stockpot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the carrots and cook until tender, about 10-15 minutes. Once done, remove from heat and drain well.
3. Transfer the carrots into a food processor along with the margarine. Pulse until smooth and pureed.
4. Add the eggs, brown sugar, flour, baking powder, and baking soda to the food processor. Process the mixture until everything is well combined and smooth.
5. Pour the carrot mixture into a 1-quart, round baking dish.
6. Place the baking dish inside a larger dish. Fill the larger dish with 1 inch of water to prevent the bottom of the casserole from burning during baking.
7. Bake the casserole, uncovered, in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until the mixture is firm and set.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 240
• Total Fat: 13g (17% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 3g (13% DV)
• Cholesterol: 70mg (23% DV)
• Sodium: 425mg (18% DV)
• Total Carbohydrate: 28g (10% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 3g (12% DV)
• Total Sugars: 19g
• Protein: 4g (8% DV)
• Vitamin C: 7mg (7% DV)
• Calcium: 101mg (8% DV)
• Iron: 1mg (6% DV)
• Potassium: 417mg (9% DV)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may vary based on your specific dietary needs.

** Nutrient information is based on available data for the ingredients listed and may vary slightly.

Carrot Souffle with Brown Sugar is a unique side dish that combines the earthy sweetness of carrots with the richness of brown sugar and butter, creating a fluffy, creamy texture. This dish is not just a regular vegetable side; it offers a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors, making it a popular choice for special occasions and family dinners. With its smooth, airy consistency, it can be enjoyed as both a side dish and a dessert, making it a versatile addition to any meal.

History of Carrot Souffle

The origins of carrot souffl are somewhat unclear, but it is widely believed to have emerged in the Southern United States. The souffl, a dish traditionally associated with French cuisine, was adapted by Southern cooks to include local ingredients such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and other root vegetables. These dishes were often prepared for large family gatherings, potlucks, or holiday meals. Over time, carrot souffl became a beloved staple for Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners, cherished for its sweet flavor and light, airy texture.

Regional Variations and Influence

While the dish is most commonly associated with Southern American cuisine, variations of carrot souffl can be found throughout the United States. In some regions, the dish might include a combination of other root vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes, adding a layer of complexity to the flavor. The addition of brown sugar, vanilla, or cinnamon is also a common feature, which further highlights the influence of Southern cooking that blends savory and sweet ingredients.

How Carrot Souffl Differs from Similar Dishes

Carrot souffl stands apart from other carrot-based dishes such as glazed carrots or carrot casserole due to its light, airy texture. Unlike traditional casseroles, which tend to have a denser consistency, souffl relies on the incorporation of whipped eggs and other ingredients to create a fluffy, souffl-like texture. Additionally, the sweetness of brown sugar and the creamy richness from margarine or butter make this dish more of a sweet side dish, bordering on dessert, rather than a purely savory vegetable dish. This distinguishes it from more common preparations of carrots, such as roasted carrots or carrot salad.

Where is Carrot Souffl Served?

Carrot souffl is commonly served in the United States, particularly during the fall and winter months when root vegetables are in season. It is a popular dish at holiday meals, such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter. Many families prepare this dish for potlucks, buffets, and special gatherings due to its appealing appearance and the fact that it can easily serve a large group. Its versatility allows it to be served as both a side dish alongside meats like turkey or ham, or as a light dessert when served chilled.

Interesting Facts About Carrot Souffl

• Carrot souffl is a great way to get picky eaters to enjoy vegetables. The sweetness of the dish, combined with its smooth texture, often appeals to children and adults alike.
• The dish can be easily customized by adding other ingredients like vanilla extract, nutmeg, or even a touch of ginger, giving it an extra flavor boost.
• Despite being a dessert-like dish, carrot souffl is packed with nutrients, including fiber, vitamin A, and potassium, making it a healthier alternative to other sugary desserts.
• In some variations, cooks may add a crunchy topping, such as chopped nuts or a sprinkle of extra brown sugar, to enhance the texture and flavor.

This Carrot Souffl with Brown Sugar recipe is a perfect example of how Southern cuisine has transformed a simple root vegetable into a comforting and delightful dish. Whether you're preparing it for a holiday gathering or a family dinner, it's sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

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