Pan-Roasted Carrots with Leeks, Pancetta, and Thyme
by Susie Middleton
The carrots and leeks in this rich, savory side dish get a double dose of browning—first from searing, then from roasting. Try to find thin leeks with long white and light-green parts to match the shape and size of the carrots.
Serves 4
3 to 4 very thin slices pancetta (about 1 oz.)
2-1/2 Tbs. unsalted butter
1-1/2 tsp. olive oil
1 lb. leeks (about 3 medium), white and light-green parts only, trimmed and quartered
1 lb. medium carrots, quartered
Kosher salt
1/3 cup plus 2 Tbs. dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc
1-1/4 cups lower-salt chicken broth
1 tsp. chopped fresh thyme
1/2 tsp. ground coriander
Position a rack in the center of the oven and heat the oven to 425°F. In a 12-inch oven-safe skillet, cook the pancetta over medium-low heat until brown, turning as necessary, 5 to 8 minutes. Transfer the pancetta to a plate lined with paper towels (it will crisp as it cools);remove the skillet from the heat and cool slightly.
Put the skillet over medium heat and add 1-1/2 Tbs. of the butter and the olive oil. When the butter has melted, arrange the leek and carrot pieces on the bottom of the pan in a snug single layer. Season with 1/2 tsp. salt and cook, undisturbed, until the bottoms of the vegetables are browned (the leeks may be slightly darker than the carrots), about 5 minutes. Using tongs, flip the vegetables and add 1/3 cup of the wine. Continue to cook undisturbed until the wine has almost evaporated, 2 to 3 minutes. Add the chicken broth, half of the thyme, and the coriander, and transfer the skillet to the oven.
Roast until the carrots are tender when pierced with a fork, about 30 minutes.
Transfer the vegetables to a warm platter. Put the skillet over medium-high heat (use caution; the handle is hot), add the remaining 2 Tbs. wine and stir for a few seconds, scraping up any browned bits. Remove the skillet from the heat, add the remaining 1 Tbs. butter and 1/2 tsp. thyme, and stir to melt the butter. Pour the sauce over the vegetables, crumble the pancetta over top, and serve.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a roasted leg of lamb for a special occasion or with a simple roasted pork loin for a Sunday meal.
nutrition information (per serving):
Calories
(kcal):
190;
Fat
(g):
11;
Fat Calories
(kcal):
100;
Saturated Fat
(g):
6;
Protein
(g):
4;
Monounsaturated Fat
(g):
4;
Carbohydrates
(g):
15;
Polyunsaturated Fat
(g):
1;
Sodium
(mg):
280;
Cholesterol
(mg):
25;
Fiber
(g):
3;
photo: Scott Phillips
From Fine Cooking 116
, pp. 55
March 1, 2012