Quenelles French Dumplings Recipe

Cook Time: 40 minutes  

   Prep Time: 25 minutes

Quenelles French Dumplings Ingredients

Quenelles French Dumplings Instructions

  1. Chill a mixing bowl and food processor blade in the freezer for 15 minutes to keep the mixture cold. Prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and lightly butter it. Set out a saucepan, slotted spoon, and two spoons for shaping quenelles.
  2. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add 1/2 cup whole milk and bring to a simmer. Stir in 1/2 cup all-purpose flour all at once, mixing vigorously with a wooden spoon until a smooth dough forms and pulls away from the sides of the pan. Continue cooking and stirring for 1-2 minutes to dry the panade. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
  3. Cut the 8 oz pike fillet into 1-inch pieces. Pat dry thoroughly with paper towels. Place the fish in the chilled food processor bowl and pulse until finely chopped.
  4. Add the cooled panade to the fish in the food processor. Pulse until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
  5. Add 2 large chilled eggs, 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt, 1/4 teaspoon white pepper, and 1/8 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg to the mixture. Process until fully incorporated and smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.
  6. With the processor running, slowly pour in 1/2 cup very cold heavy cream. Blend until the mixture is silky and homogenous. Fold in 1 tablespoon each of finely chopped chives and tarragon using a spatula.
  7. Using two spoons dipped in hot water, shape the mixture into oval quenelles, about 2 inches long. Place each quenelle on the prepared baking sheet.
  8. In a wide saucepan, combine 1/2 cup fish stock and 1/2 cup dry white wine. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Carefully lower the quenelles into the poaching liquid in batches, ensuring they do not touch. Poach for 8-10 minutes, turning once, until firm and cooked through. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
  9. For the sauce, melt 1 tablespoon unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add 1 small minced shallot and cook until soft, about 2 minutes. Pour in 1/2 cup heavy cream and simmer until slightly thickened, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 cup crème fraîche until smooth. Season with salt and white pepper to taste.
  10. Spoon the warm sauce onto serving plates. Arrange the poached quenelles on top. Garnish with lemon zest and additional chopped herbs if desired. Serve immediately.

Estimated Calories: 210, Servings: 6

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Quenelles History

Imagine the cultural origins of quenelles as the roots of a grand old tree in a French garden, deeply embedded in Lyon's culinary soil. Just as a family recipe is passed down through generations, the tradition of making quenelles has been lovingly preserved, representing the best of French ingenuity and resourcefulness. In the same way that a good story is told and retold, each cook adds their own touch, making the dish both a symbol of heritage and a delicious reminder of home. The process of creating quenelles is like learning a classic dance-once you know the steps, it becomes an easy and almost automatic part of your repertoire, quick to recall for special occasions.
The evolution of the quenelle recipe is much like the journey of a river, starting as a small stream and gathering new flavors and techniques as it flows through time. What began as a way to stretch ingredients and make a healthy, filling meal has become a canvas for culinary creativity. Just as fashion trends shift with each decade, so too have the methods for preparing quenelles, with modern chefs finding fast and innovative ways to lighten the texture or introduce new flavors. The best recipes are those that balance tradition with a willingness to adapt, proving that even the most classic dishes can be made fresh and exciting with a little imagination.
Regional adaptations of quenelles are like dialects in a language-each area of France has its own delicious twist, shaped by local tastes and available ingredients. In some regions, the recipe is as rich and comforting as a good novel, while in others, it is light and airy, perfect for a quick lunch or a great starter. The diversity of approaches is a testament to the dish's versatility, showing how a single idea can blossom into many forms, each one easy to love and uniquely suited to its environment. This adaptability is what makes quenelles a staple in French cuisine, always ready to be reinvented for a new generation of food lovers.

Quenelles Story

The memory of that afternoon is like a well-worn recipe card, edges curled from years of use, each smudge a reminder of laughter and flour-dusted hands. The kitchen was a stage, sunlight streaming in as if it were a spotlight, and my grandmother the star performer. She moved with the confidence of someone who knows the best way to turn simple moments into lasting treasures. The air was thick with anticipation, and I remember thinking that this was what good days felt like, as if time itself had slowed to let us savor every second.
If emotions were colors, that day would be painted in warm golds and soft creams, swirling together in a delicious blend. The sounds of clinking utensils and bubbling water were the soundtrack, as comforting as a favorite song played on repeat. My excitement was a fast river, carrying me from one task to the next, eager to help and be part of something great. The process was easy in the way that only things done with love can be, each step a quick lesson in patience and joy.
Looking back, I realize those afternoons were more than just about food; they were about building something healthy and strong, like the foundation of a house that would shelter me for years to come. The laughter we shared was the mortar, holding together the bricks of our family story. Even now, when life gets busy and complicated, I find myself reaching for those memories, as if they are a secret ingredient that makes everything better. They remind me that the best moments are often the simplest, and that love, like a cherished recipe, is meant to be shared.

About Quenelles Recipe

If you've never tried making this classic dish, let me tell you, the best homemade quenelles recipe is about to become your new kitchen obsession. The first time I attempted this authentic recipe, I was convinced it would be complicated, but it's surprisingly easy and quick! With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these tasty delights that'll have everyone thinking you've been secretly training in a French bistro. The secret to the perfect quenelles is all in the technique, but don't worry-I've got some tips to make sure your first try is a delicious success.
What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something a bit fancier for guests, these homemade quenelles fit the bill. The ingredients are easy to find, and the steps are straightforward, so you don't need to be a professional chef to get it right. I always joke that if I can make this authentic dish without setting off the smoke alarm, anyone can! The best part? You can customize the recipe with your favorite flavors, making it as simple or as fancy as you like.
If you're wondering how to make the best quenelles, my advice is to keep it simple and trust the process. Don't be afraid to get your hands a little messy-after all, that's half the fun! With a few tasty tweaks and some practice, you'll be serving up perfect, fluffy quenelles every time. Remember, the key ingredients are patience and a sense of humor. So grab your mixing bowl, follow these easy tips, and get ready to enjoy a delicious, authentic dish that'll impress even the pickiest eaters.

Healthy Quenelles Tips

Making your favorite French Quenelles recipe healthier is like tuning up a classic car for better mileage without losing its vintage charm. Swap out heavy cream and butter for lighter dairy or plant-based alternatives, just as you'd replace old engine parts with efficient new ones. Choose lean proteins or even plant-based options as your main ingredients, ensuring your homemade Quenelles remain both tasty and authentic. This simple adjustment keeps the dish delicious and satisfying, while boosting its health profile. Think of it as using the best, freshest ingredients to fuel your body, making every bite a quick and easy step toward better health.
Just as a gardener selects the best seeds for a thriving garden, you can pick whole grain breadcrumbs and add finely chopped vegetables to your Quenelles recipe for extra fiber and nutrients. These easy tweaks not only make the dish more filling but also support your health goals. Use these tips to create a perfect balance between tradition and wellness, ensuring your homemade Quenelles are both tasty and health-conscious. With a few quick changes, you'll have an authentic, delicious meal that's as good for your health as it is for your taste buds.

Storage Tips

When it comes to storage, think of quenelles as delicate origami figures that need a gentle touch and a safe box. The best way to keep them fresh is to place them in an airtight container, much like tucking away precious keepsakes in a jewelry box. This method is both easy and fast, ensuring that the recipe remains as delicious and healthy as when first made, while also preventing any unwanted fridge odors from mingling with their subtle flavors.
Shelf life for quenelles is a bit like the lifespan of a bouquet of fresh flowers: beautiful but fleeting. For the best results, enjoy them within two to three days, as their texture and taste are at their peak during this window. Waiting too long is like letting a great opportunity slip by, so a quick turnaround from fridge to table is a good rule of thumb for this classic French recipe.
Spoilage signs in quenelles are as telling as a wilted leaf in a salad. If you notice any off smells, slimy surfaces, or a change in color, it is a clear signal that the dish is no longer healthy or delicious. Just as you would not wear a stained shirt to a fancy event, do not serve quenelles that have lost their freshness; it is always best to err on the side of caution for a great dining experience.