How To Blanch A Scallion

Blanching Scallions: A Simple Guide

Blanching is a cooking technique that involves briefly immersing food in boiling water, followed by plunging it into ice-cold water to halt the cooking process. It is commonly used to partially cook vegetables, such as scallions, before using them in recipes. If you’re wondering how to blanch a scallion, you’ve come to the right place! Follow these simple steps to blanch scallions like a pro.

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients and Equipment

Before you begin blanching scallions, make sure you have the following:

• Fresh scallions
• A pot of boiling water
• A bowl of ice water
• A slotted spoon or tongs

Step 2: Prepare the Scallions

Start by rinsing the scallions under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Trim off the root ends and any wilted green parts. If the scallions are particularly long, you can cut them into smaller, more manageable lengths.

Step 3: Blanch the Scallions

Once your scallions are prepped, it’s time to blanch them. Here’s how:

1. Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil.
2. Using a slotted spoon or tongs, carefully lower the scallions into the boiling water.
3. Let the scallions cook for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until they turn bright green and slightly tender.

Step 4: Shock the Scallions

As soon as the scallions are done blanching, use the slotted spoon or tongs to transfer them to a bowl of ice water. This shocking step stops the cooking process and helps the scallions retain their vibrant color and crisp texture.

Step 5: Drain and Use

Once the scallions have cooled in the ice water for a minute or two, remove them and pat them dry with a paper towel. Your blanched scallions are now ready to be used in your favorite recipes!

Why Blanch Scallions?

Blanching scallions serves several purposes. It helps to:

• Preserve their vibrant green color
• Soften their texture slightly
• Remove any harsh raw onion flavor

Blanched scallions can be used in stir-fries, salads, soups, and more, adding a pop of color and flavor to your dishes.

Final Thoughts

Now that you know how to blanch scallions, you can confidently incorporate this cooking technique into your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner cook, blanching scallions is a simple yet effective way to elevate your dishes. Give it a try and enjoy the bright, fresh flavor of perfectly blanched scallions in your next meal!