Consommé

Consommé is a type of clear soup made from richly flavored stock or broth that has been clarified, a process which uses egg whites to remove fat and sediment. Consommé is a French term that means "completed" or "concentrated," reflecting the intense flavor and meticulous preparation involved in its making. The origins of consommé date back to medieval Europe, where it was a popular dish among the nobility due to the labor-intensive process required to prepare it.

Ingredients and Preparation

The primary ingredients in consommé include broth or stock, usually made from beef, chicken, or fish, and a mixture known as a clarification raft, which consists of egg whites, lean ground meat (often the same type of meat from which the stock is made), mirepoix (a mixture of chopped onion, carrot, and celery), tomato paste, and herbs and spices. The egg whites in the raft bind to the impurities and fat in the broth as it simmers, forming a layer on the surface that can be easily removed, leaving the liquid below clear.

The preparation of consommé begins with the simmering of stock or broth, to which the clarification raft is added. The mixture is slowly brought to a simmer, and as it heats, the egg whites coagulate and rise to the surface, trapping impurities. Care must be taken to avoid boiling, as this can break the raft and cloud the consommé. Once the raft has fully formed, the consommé is carefully strained through a fine sieve or cheesecloth to ensure clarity.

Varieties

Consommé can be served hot or cold and is often garnished with finely diced vegetables, small pasta, or dumplings. It can also serve as the base for other dishes, such as soups, sauces, and aspics. There are many variations of consommé, including:

• Consommé double, which is made by using a consommé as the stock for a second clarification, resulting in an even more concentrated flavor.
• Consommé julienne, which is garnished with finely sliced vegetables.
• Consommé royale, which includes a garnish of custard made from eggs and seasoned stock, cut into decorative shapes.

Nutritional Information

Consommé is low in calories and fat, making it a suitable option for a light meal or starter. However, its nutritional content largely depends on the ingredients used in the stock or broth and the garnishes added to the finished dish.

Culinary Significance

Consommé holds a revered place in classical French cuisine and is considered a test of a chef's skill due to the precision required in its preparation. It is not only a dish but also a technique that exemplifies the principles of clarity, concentration, and refinement in cooking.

See Also

• Broth
• Stock (food)
• French cuisine
• Clarification (cooking)