Chilled Broccoli Gelatin Salad
This unique Chilled Broccoli Gelatin Salad is a cherished family recipe inspired by my grandmother's beloved dish known as Bavarian Salad. A staple at our Thanksgiving gatherings, this vibrant salad combines tender chopped broccoli with a silky mayonnaise dressing and a flavorful beef consommé base. Encapsulated in a gelatinous mold, this dish offers a delightful contrast of textures and makes for a refreshing side. While it’s a dish that some may love and others may shy away from, I guarantee that those who enjoy it will savor every bite. Perfect for holiday feasts or picnics, it’s a conversation starter on any table!
N/A
Servings
90
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Beef consommé
1 (10 1/2 ounce can)
Frozen chopped broccoli
1 (10 ounce package)
Mayonnaise
3/4 (cup)
Knox original unflavored gelatin
1 (1/4 ounce packet)
Cold water
1/4 (cup)
Instructions
1
Begin by cooking the frozen chopped broccoli according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain well and allow it to cool completely.
2
In a small bowl, sprinkle the Knox gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it sit for a few minutes to soften.
3
In a saucepan, bring the beef consommé to a gentle boil over medium heat. Once boiling, remove it from the heat and stir in the softened gelatin. Mix continuously for about 3-4 minutes until the gelatin is completely dissolved.
4
Allow the consommé and gelatin mixture to cool until it's just warm. Be careful not to let it set before mixing in the mayonnaise.
5
Whisk the mayonnaise into the warm consommé mixture until it's smooth and well combined.
6
Fold in the cooled broccoli until evenly coated with the dressing.
7
Pour the mixture into a small mold or a 9x9-inch square pan, smoothing out the top if necessary. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or until fully set.
8
Once set, carefully unmold the salad onto a serving platter, or simply slice from the pan and serve chilled.
Nutrition Information
7g
Fat
4g
Carbs
4g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chilled Broccoli Gelatin Salad?
Chilled Broccoli Gelatin Salad is a unique side dish consisting of chopped broccoli set in a beef consomme and mayonnaise gelatin base.
What is the inspiration for this recipe?
This is a cherished family recipe inspired by the creator's grandmother's dish known as Bavarian Salad.
When is this salad typically served?
It is a staple at Thanksgiving gatherings but is also perfect for holiday feasts and picnics.
How many calories are in a serving?
There are 90 calories in a serving of this salad.
What are the primary ingredients?
The main ingredients are beef consomme, frozen chopped broccoli, mayonnaise, Knox unflavored gelatin, and cold water.
How much fat is in this dish?
Each serving contains 7 grams of fat.
What is the carbohydrate content?
This recipe contains 4 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
How much protein does it provide?
There are 4 grams of protein per serving.
What type of broccoli should I use?
The recipe calls for one 10-ounce package of frozen chopped broccoli.
How do I prepare the broccoli for the salad?
Cook the frozen broccoli according to the package instructions, then drain it well and allow it to cool completely.
What kind of gelatin is used?
Use one 1/4 ounce packet of Knox original unflavored gelatin.
How do I soften the gelatin?
Sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it sit for a few minutes to soften.
How do I incorporate the gelatin into the consomme?
Bring the beef consomme to a boil, remove from heat, and stir in the softened gelatin for 3 to 4 minutes until dissolved.
What size can of beef consomme is needed?
You will need one 10 1/2 ounce can of beef consomme.
When should I add the mayonnaise?
Whisk the mayonnaise into the consomme mixture once it has cooled to a warm temperature but before it begins to set.
How much mayonnaise is required?
The recipe requires 3/4 cup of mayonnaise.
What is the texture of the finished salad?
The salad features tender chopped broccoli within a silky, gelatinous dressing, offering a delightful contrast of textures.
What container should I use to set the salad?
You can use a small decorative mold or a 9x9-inch square pan.
How long does the salad need to refrigerate?
The salad should be refrigerated for at least 3 hours, or until it is fully set.
How should I serve the salad?
You can carefully unmold the salad onto a serving platter or simply slice it directly from the pan and serve chilled.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
No, this recipe contains beef consomme and gelatin, which are animal-based products.
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, provided you cook it until tender, chop it finely, and measure out a comparable amount to a 10-ounce package.
Does this recipe contain sugar?
No, based on the provided nutritional information, this recipe does not contain added sugar.
Is the salad gluten-free?
While the primary ingredients are naturally gluten-free, you should check the label of the beef consomme to ensure no gluten-based thickeners were used.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, to maintain freshness.
Can this be made a day in advance?
Yes, making it a day ahead is a great way to ensure the gelatin has fully set before serving.
What makes this a conversation starter?
Its unique combination of beef consomme and broccoli in a chilled gelatin form often surprises guests and prompts discussion.
Can I substitute the beef consomme with broth?
Consomme is preferred for its clarity and flavor, but you could use beef broth if necessary, though the clarity of the mold may change.
Why must the consomme cool before adding mayo?
If the consomme is too hot, it may cause the mayonnaise to break or separate rather than whisking into a smooth mixture.
Is this a kid-friendly recipe?
While it depends on the child's palate, the creator notes it is a polarizing dish that those who enjoy savory gelatin salads will love.