[1]

Here’s another way of enjoying those carrots brought home from the fun-filled carrot fest at last weekend’s [2] Winter Farmers’ Market. Paired with some spring-dug parsnips, this Carrot & Parsnip Gratin is easy to assemble and can be served alongside another vegetable or meat dish, or on its own with a tossed green salad. A gratin is simply a shallow casserole that’s been topped with cheese or breadcrumbs, then cooked in an oven or under a broiler until browned and crusty. Once you learn the basic steps, you’ll be able to adapt this recipe to what’s available seasonally.

Carrot & Parsnip Gratin

4 carrots

4 parsnips

Butter

Breadcrumbs ([3] homemade)

Parmesan cheese, finely grated

Salt & pepper

- Peel and cut carrots and parsnips into desired shape (matchsticks, rounds or spears)

- Parboil by simmering in salted water until almost tender; drain. Toss with a pat or two of butter, and season w/salt and pepper to taste.

- Spread in a baking dish large enough to hold in a thin layer; sprinkle with a handful of breadcrumbs and Parmesan to cover lightly. Dot with some more butter.

- Broil or bake in 400° oven until golden brown. Makes about 4 servings.

Notes: Depending on size, allow around 1 carrot and parsnip per serving. Use all carrots if parsnips are unavailable; try a mix of different colored carrots when they appear at the farmers’ markets. Any number of herbs and spices — such as thyme, tarragon, marjoram, cumin, coriander, or ginger — can be added to enhance flavor.

Many thanks to [4] Jennifer Purrenhage and [5] Erin Allgood for making it possible for us to include cooking demonstrations at the Winter Farmers’ Market this season — we hope you found it as much fun as they did! Here’s a link to more [6] recipes featuring carrots from Jennifer and Erin, including ones for “Maple-Glazed Carrots with Sea Salt” or “Carroty Candy”, and “Raw Sweet Carrot Salad.” We also want to thank the vendors who generously donated food for demonstrating: [7] Meadow’s Mirth, [8] NH Cider Works, [9] New Roots Farm, and [10] Riverside Farm. The results were delicious and disappeared fast!