I created this recipe after tasting Italian chestnut honey. It has a haunting, slightly bitter flavor that might not be for everyone. But for me it was a revelation, not unlike the first time I tasted arugula or an artichoke. Up to that point, honey was honey. But this honey smelled as earthy as a barnyard—I went running through my restaurant having people taste and smell it. In this dressing, I pair it with the rich, nutty flavor of brown butter, which mellows the honey’s sharp edges. Because of the brown butter, this dressing works best with a warm salad. Try it with diced roasted butternut squash; thick slices of grilled onion alongside roasted chicken; or a lightly wilted spinach salad with bacon, apples, and chopped hazelnuts.
Ingredients
makes about 3/4 cup or 4 to 6 servings
Melt the butter in a small saucepan. Swirl the pan over medium heat until the foam subsides and turns a nutty brown color. Remove from heat; cool. Place the shallots, vinegar, and honey in a medium mixing bowl and whisk to dissolve honey. Whisk in the brown butter and olive oil, and season with salt.
How would you rate Brown Butter Dressing with Chestnut Honey?
Leave a Review