Sharon BrownBarefoot Contessa Noodle Kugel, with its sweet and creamy texture, pairs beautifully with a variety of sides to create a well-rounded meal. Honey glazed carrots add a tender sweetness that contrasts nicely with the richness of the kugel.
A simple roasted chicken, seasoned with herbs and garlic, offers a savory backdrop, with its succulent juices complementing the creamy dish.
To balance the richness, a fresh green salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch and a touch of brightness to the plate. Together, these pairings elevate the meal, providing a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
I still remember the first time I tasted Barefoot Contessa Noodle Kugel. It was a chilly evening, and the aroma wafting from the kitchen felt like a warm hug.
As I served myself a generous helping, I couldn’t help but marvel at the magic happening in each bite. Creamy, sweet, and imbued with flavors that danced across my palate, it was truly a culinary revelation.
Noodle kugel combines the elegance of comfort food with an unexpected twist. On a busy weeknight or a grand holiday spread, this dish garners applause every single time.
Let me take you through the story of this delightful recipe and why it deserves its spotlight.
What is Barefoot Contessa Noodle Kugel?
Barefoot Contessa Noodle Kugel is a traditional Jewish dish, primarily made with egg noodles, ricotta cheese, and a medley of sweet flavors.
It can serve as a side dish or a decadent dessert. The contrast of creamy and sweet ingredients creates a delectable experience.
The roots of this dish stem from Ashkenazi Jewish cuisine, where kugel was often made for Shabbat dinners and holidays.
Ina Garten, also known as the Barefoot Contessa, has taken this classic recipe and brought it into modern kitchens, making it easy to whip up without sacrificing tradition.
Why This Recipe Works
- Flavor Harmony: The combination of sweet and savory ingredients creates a well-rounded dish. The richness of the ricotta cheese counterbalances the sweetness of the raisins and sugar. This delightful contrast keeps every bite interesting.
- Easy Preparation: Noodle kugel is not just delicious; it’s incredibly simple to make. Just boil the noodles, mix everything together, and bake. I love quick recipes that still provide a homemade touch.
- Versatile: You can serve it warm or at room temperature. This makes it perfect for any occasion. Potluck? Check. Family dinner? Check. Breakfast? Absolutely.
- Perfect for Make-Ahead: Preparing this dish is a breeze. You can assemble it a day ahead and simply pop it in the oven before serving. This means less stress and more time to enjoy with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need to Make This Dish
To create this delightful dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound wide egg noodles
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup golden raisins
- 5 large eggs
- 4 cups of half-and-half cream
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 1/2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
How to Make Barefoot Contessa Noodle Kugel
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s boiling, add the wide egg noodles and cook until al dente. Stir occasionally, ensuring they don’t stick. Once done, drain and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Step 2: Prepare the Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, golden raisins, and the cooked noodles. This will help the raisins to soften as they absorb the creamy goodness.
Step 3: Create the Custard
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, salt, black pepper, nutmeg, and almond extract. This mixture will act as the luscious custard that binds everything together.
Step 4: Mix Everything Together
Pour the custard mixture over the noodle and cheese blend. Fold everything gently until the noodles are well-coated. You want to distribute the rich flavors evenly.
Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Pour the kugel mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. This helps it bake uniformly.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 45 minutes to an hour. The top should be golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
Tips & Tricks
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles: If they’re too soft before baking, they’ll turn mushy in the kugel. Al dente is the way to go!
- Experiment with Flavors: Add some fresh fruit like blueberries or diced apples for a twist.
- Make it Ahead: Assemble the kugel a day in advance. Cover it tightly and keep it in the fridge. Just bake it before serving.
- Use a Mix of Cheeses: You can use cottage cheese or cream cheese for variation.
- Golden Raisins: They add a sweetness that pairs beautifully with the other flavors. However, if you prefer, you can use regular raisins or omit them entirely.
How Do You Store the Leftovers?
Store leftover noodle kugel in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also microwave it in individual portions.
What Sides Would Complement Barefoot Contessa Noodle Kugel?
1. Honey Glazed Carrots: These vibrant carrots add both color and sweetness. Simply boil until tender, then drizzle with honey and roast briefly. They will look beautiful and taste delectable.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The earthy flavor of Brussels sprouts pairs nicely. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until crispy.
3. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus lends a fresh taste to balance the richness of the kugel. A squeeze of lemon brightens every bite.
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients if They Are Not Present in Your Kitchen?
1. Noodles: If you don’t have wide egg noodles, you can substitute with any pasta shape. Just ensure it’s cooked al dente.
2. Ricotta Cheese: Cottage cheese is a great alternative. It will yield a slightly different texture but offers a similar flavor profile.
3. Half-and-Half: Whole milk or heavy cream works well in place of half-and-half.
4. Sweeteners: You can use honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a natural sweetening option.
Barefoot Contessa Noodle Kugel Recipe
Equipment
- Large pot
Ingredients
- 1 pound wide egg noodles
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup golden raisins
- 5 large eggs
- 4 cups of half-and-half cream
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 1/2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
Instructions
- Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s boiling, add the wide egg noodles and cook until al dente. Stir occasionally, ensuring they don’t stick. Once done, drain and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, golden raisins, and the cooked noodles. This will help the raisins to soften as they absorb the creamy goodness.
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, salt, black pepper, nutmeg, and almond extract. This mixture will act as the luscious custard that binds everything together.
- Pour the custard mixture over the noodle and cheese blend. Fold everything gently until the noodles are well-coated. You want to distribute the rich flavors evenly.
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Pour the kugel mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. This helps it bake uniformly.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 45 minutes to an hour. The top should be golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
Notes
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles: If they’re too soft before baking, they’ll turn mushy in the kugel. Al dente is the way to go!
- Experiment with Flavors: Add some fresh fruit like blueberries or diced apples for a twist.
- Make it Ahead: Assemble the kugel a day in advance. Cover it tightly and keep it in the fridge. Just bake it before serving.
- Use a Mix of Cheeses: You can use cottage cheese or cream cheese for variation.
- Golden Raisins: They add a sweetness that pairs beautifully with the other flavors. However, if you prefer, you can use regular raisins or omit them entirely.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Barefoot Contessa Noodle Kugel is more than just a dish. It’s a heartfelt connection to family gatherings and cherished moments around the table.
The flavors and textures combine in a harmonious way that’s simply irresistible. With straightforward preparation, substitute options, and the ability to serve it for various occasions, this recipe quickly becomes a beloved staple in any household.
So, gather your ingredients, let your kitchen fill with wonderful aromas, and enjoy a slice — or two!
It’s a dish that not only fills the stomach but also warms the heart. Remember, cooking is not just about the food; it’s about making memories, and this kugel is ready to help you create many. Enjoy!
