French Float. Recipe

French Float Recipe

History:
The French Float, also known as Floating Asparagus, is a delightful dish that originated in France, a country renowned for its rich culinary heritage. This recipe is believed to have been created during the Renaissance period, when asparagus was considered a delicacy amongst the French aristocracy. Over the centuries, the French Float has evolved to become a classic French dish loved by many around the world.

Fun Facts:
- Asparagus has been consumed for thousands of years and was highly prized by the ancient Greeks and Romans for its medicinal properties.
- The French Float is traditionally served as a side dish alongside succulent veal chops, creating a well-balanced and flavorful meal.
- Asparagus is often referred to as the "queen of vegetables" due to its elegant appearance and delicate flavor.
- This recipe showcases the versatility of asparagus, as it can be enjoyed both boiled and covered in a creamy sauce.

Now, let's dive into the delightful recipe for French Float:

Ingredients:
- 1 bunch of fresh asparagus
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 egg yolk
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
- Veal chops, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Begin by cutting off the tough ends of the asparagus spears. This can be done by gently bending the asparagus near the base until it snaps naturally.

2. Once the tough ends are removed, rinse the asparagus under running water to remove any dirt or impurities.

3. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add a teaspoon of salt to the boiling water, ensuring it is well-dissolved.

4. Carefully place the asparagus spears into the boiling water and cook until they become tender. This usually takes about 6-8 minutes, depending on the thickness of the spears. To check for doneness, insert a fork or knife into the thickest part of the stalk to make sure it easily pierces through.

5. While the asparagus is cooking, prepare the cream sauce. In a separate saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching.

6. Once the cream is simmering, reduce the heat to low. In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolk until smooth. Gradually add a small amount of the hot cream to the egg yolk, whisking constantly. This process, known as tempering, ensures that the egg yolk does not curdle when added to the hot cream.

7. Slowly pour the tempered egg yolk mixture into the saucepan with the remaining hot cream, whisking continuously. Continue cooking the cream sauce over low heat for another 2-3 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.

8. Remove the cream sauce from the heat and season with white pepper. Stir well to incorporate the seasonings.

9. By this time, the asparagus should be tender. Using a slotted spoon, carefully remove the cooked asparagus from the pot and transfer it to a serving dish.

10. Pour the hot cream sauce over the asparagus, ensuring each spear is generously coated. The creamy sauce will float effortlessly over the tender asparagus, hence the name "French Float."

11. Serve the French Float immediately while it is still hot. This dish pairs exceptionally well with succulent veal chops, providing a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.

Similar Recipe Dishes:
- Creamed Asparagus: A simpler variation of the French Float, creamed asparagus is made by combining cooked asparagus with a creamy sauce. The sauce can be flavored with different herbs or spices, according to personal preference.
- Grilled Asparagus: For those who prefer a smoky and charred flavor, grilling asparagus is a popular method. Simply brush the asparagus spears with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and grill until tender, slightly charred, and deliciously smoky.
- Roasted Asparagus with Parmesan: This variation adds a cheesy twist to the asparagus, as roasted asparagus spears are topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The dish is then baked until the cheese melts and forms a crispy, golden crust.

These recipes showcase the versatility of asparagus and provide different ways to enjoy this delectable vegetable. Whether you choose to indulge in the elegant French Float or opt for the simplicity of creamed asparagus, each dish celebrates the natural flavors and vibrant colors of this springtime favorite. So, go ahead and savor the flavors of France with this classic recipe!

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