Frequently Asked Questions
What are Lemon-Butter Mashed Parsnips with Chives?
It is a creamy and flavorful vegetable side dish made from boiled parsnips mashed with butter, heavy cream, and lemon.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
What ingredients do I need for the mashed parsnips?
You will need 2.5 lbs of parsnips, chicken bouillon cubes, lemon juice, unsalted butter, heavy cream, salt, black pepper, and fresh chives.
How should I prepare the parsnips before cooking?
The parsnips should be peeled and quartered before being placed in the saucepan.
What is the purpose of adding bouillon to the water?
The crushed chicken bouillon cubes infuse the parsnips with a savory depth of flavor while they boil.
How much lemon juice is used in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice.
How long do the parsnips need to boil?
They should simmer for approximately 20 minutes until they are very tender.
How do I know when the parsnips are finished cooking?
The parsnips are ready when they can be easily pierced with a fork.
Do I need to drain the parsnips?
Yes, you should drain the parsnips thoroughly once they are cooked before adding the mash ingredients.
What kind of butter should I use?
The recipe specifies using 4 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter.
Should the heavy cream be cold when added?
No, the recipe suggests using 1/2 cup of warmed heavy cream for a better texture.
What tools can I use to mash the parsnips?
You can use either a potato masher or a hand mixer to achieve your preferred level of creaminess.
What garnish is used for this dish?
The dish is garnished with 2 tablespoons of snipped fresh chives.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
The recipe uses chicken bouillon, so you would need to substitute with vegetable bouillon to make it strictly vegetarian.
How many chicken bouillon cubes are required?
The recipe calls for 3 crushed chicken bouillon cubes.
Can I use regular black pepper?
Yes, though the recipe recommends freshly ground black pepper for the best flavor.
What is the cooking method for this side dish?
The parsnips are boiled and then mashed.
What heat setting should I use?
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer.
When should I add the salt and pepper?
Season the mashed parsnips after they have been mashed with the butter and cream.
How many ingredients are in this recipe total?
There are 8 ingredients including the seasonings and garnish.
Can I serve this for a holiday meal?
Yes, it is described as a perfect accompaniment for holiday feasts or family dinners.
How much parsnip weight is required?
You will need 2.5 pounds of parsnips.
How much chive is used for the garnish?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of snipped fresh chives.
What is the flavor profile of this dish?
It combines the natural sweetness of parsnips with savory bouillon, rich butter, and bright lemon.
Can I make the parsnips extra smooth?
Yes, using a hand mixer will help create a smoother, more luxurious texture than a manual masher.
Should I peel the parsnips?
Yes, the ingredients list specifies that parsnips should be peeled.
When do I add the lemon juice?
The lemon juice is added to the saucepan with the water and bouillon before boiling.
Is this a difficult recipe to make?
No, it is tagged as an easy recipe suitable for any level of cook.
How should the dish be served?
It should be served immediately while warm for the best flavor and consistency.