### The Art of Panade: A Comforting Classic from The Zuni Cafe Cookbook
The panade recipe from *The Zuni Cafe Cookbook* stands out as a culinary treasure that has won over the hearts and palates of many. This dish, a delightful combination of basic ingredients, elevates any meal into a lavish centerpiece. Its enchantment lies in its unpretentiousness: bubbling chunks of brothy bread, caramelized onions, and gooey cheese meld together to form a dish that is significantly more impressive than its individual components.
#### A Versatile Delight
One of the most enticing features of panade is its flexibility. Although the original recipe includes chard, it’s easy to modify it based on your tastes or the time of year. Whether you wish to create a vegetarian variation with a different broth or include assorted sautéed greens or roasted vegetables, the options are limitless. Judy Rodgers, the cookbook’s author, offers numerous ideas and alternatives to motivate you throughout the year.
#### Choosing the Right Bread
The key to a superb panade lies in the bread. A sturdy, chewy artisan sourdough loaf is suggested for its structure and capacity to withstand cooking. Steer clear of commercial sourdoughs with a fine crumb, as they typically break down into a mushy texture. For a distinctive twist, consider using a day-old homemade sourdough paired with wild rice.
#### To Crust or Not to Crust
The choice to include the crust is a personal decision. Retaining the crust offers structure to the panade, while opting for a crustless variant yields a creamier texture. You can even take a 50/50 route to enjoy the best characteristics of both options.
#### Selecting the Perfect Broth
The type of broth you select greatly impacts the flavor of your panade. The original recipe calls for chicken broth, but vegetarians may wish to explore alternatives like mushroom or corn broth. For an extraordinary twist, think about using spicy bean broth or a herby broth to enhance the tastes of scallions and chives.
#### Experimenting with Cheese
Gruyere is a traditional pick for panade, but feel free to branch out with other cheeses. A mixture of Gruyere, Parmesan, and Pecorino can bring added depth and richness. Choose bold cheeses that melt well, and avoid mild varieties such as mozzarella.
#### Preparing in Advance
To make the cooking process smoother, you can prep certain elements in advance. Caramelize the onions and pre-roast any additional ingredients, enabling you to assemble the panade efficiently when you’re ready to bake.
#### Finding Your Preferred Consistency
The texture of your panade may vary from soupy to drier, based on your likes. Adjust the quantity of broth to reach your desired consistency. The recipe aims to find a sweet spot between a stuffing-like feel and a smooth, almost soup-like dish.
### A Comforting Winter Warmer
Panade is the quintessential comfort meal, ideal for cozying up on a cold winter night. Its rustic look masks the opulent silkiness that lies beneath. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or enjoying it alone, this dish is bound to become a cherished favorite in your cooking lineup.
For anyone who hasn’t yet encountered the wonders of panade, now is the perfect moment to jump in and discover this enchanting recipe. With its limitless versatility and comforting tastes, it’s a dish that promises to amaze and please, time after time.