Best 2 Alton Brown Ma Maes Congealed Christmas Salad Recipes

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Indulge in a festive tradition with Alton Brown's Ma Ma's Congealed Christmas Salad, a delightful dish that adds a touch of nostalgia to your holiday table. This classic Southern dish features a combination of colorful layers, including a creamy mayonnaise base, vibrant green peas, crisp celery, crunchy walnuts, and a topping of ruby-red cranberries. It's a feast for the eyes and a burst of flavors that will impress your family and friends.

_This article provides detailed, step-by-step instructions for preparing Alton Brown's Ma Ma's Congealed Christmas Salad, along with variations and additional recipes to elevate your holiday spread. Discover the secrets behind creating the perfect creamy base, achieving the ideal consistency, and incorporating unique ingredients that add a personal touch to this beloved dish._

_Explore variations such as the tangy Lemon Congealed Salad, featuring a refreshing citrus twist, and the savory Congealed Vegetable Salad, packed with a variety of crisp vegetables for a healthier option. For a sweeter treat, try the Orange Congealed Salad, bursting with fresh orange flavor, or the Tropical Congealed Salad, transporting you to a paradise with pineapple, coconut, and mandarin oranges._

_With its vibrant colors, delightful textures, and delicious flavors, Alton Brown's Ma Ma's Congealed Christmas Salad is a must-try for any holiday gathering. Dive into the recipes and create a dish that will become a cherished tradition in your family for years to come._

Here are our top 2 tried and tested recipes!

CRANBERRY CONGEALED SALAD



Cranberry Congealed Salad image

Before you begin, gather ingredients and equipment. Measure out ingredients.

Provided by Alton Brown

Categories     side-dish

Time 7h5m

Yield 24 ounces; enough for 8 side servings

Number Of Ingredients 9

2 ounces pecan halves
6 ounces (by weight) light agave syrup
6 ounces (by weight) honey
2 ounces 100 percent cranberry juice (see Cook's Note)
2 ounces freshly-squeezed orange juice
1/2 ounce crystalized or candied ginger, finely chopped (about 2 tablespoons)
1/4 teaspoon five-spice powder
1 pound fresh or frozen whole cranberries
Whipped cream, for serving, optional

Steps:

  • Toast the pecans in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat. Once they darken a bit and smell nutty, remove to a cutting board and chop roughly once cool.
  • Combine in the same saucepan: the light agave syrup, honey, cranberry juice, orange juice, candied ginger and five-spice powder. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to maintain a simmer for 5 minutes.
  • Add the cranberries to the saucepan, boost the heat to medium and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to maintain a simmer. Cook for 15 minutes, stirring often, until the cranberries begin to burst open, and the mixture thickens. (I usually use the back of a wooden spoon to pop the berries against the side of the pan.)
  • After 15 minutes (no more or the pectin will start to break down) remove from the heat and stir in the pecans. Set aside to cool for 5 minutes.
  • Spoon the mixture into a 3 1/2-cup silicone mold of your choice, cover with plastic wrap and cool on the counter for 30 minutes. Place on a sheet pan before refrigerating for at least 6 hours. (Overnight would be better.)
  • Turn out of mold and serve as a side or top with whipped cream and serve as dessert.

ALTON BROWN MA MAE'S CONGEALED CHRISTMAS SALAD



Alton Brown Ma Mae's Congealed Christmas Salad image

Provided by Alton Brown

Categories     dessert

Yield 10 portions

Number Of Ingredients 6

1 small package orange flavored gelatin*
1 small package lemon flavored gelatin*
2 1/2 cups boiling water
1 small can pineapple bits with juice
1/2 cup toasted, chopped pecans
1 can whole cranberry sauce

Steps:

  • Sprinkle the gelatins in a 9 by 13 glass-baking dish and slowly stir in the boiling water. Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate approximately 30 minutes or just until gelatin begins to set. (If the gelatin sets, you won't be able to stir in the goodies.)
  • Meanwhile, in a medium size bowl, combine the canned pineapple and its juice, with the pecans and the whole cranberry sauce. Add mixture to slightly thickened gelatin and stir until thoroughly combined. Return to refrigerator until firmly set. Cover with plastic wrap until ready to serve.
  • *Don't substitute with low-sugar or sugar-free. Neither will set properly.

Tips:

  • Use fresh ingredients. This will make a big difference in the flavor of your dish.
  • Don't overcook the vegetables. They should be cooked just until tender-crisp.
  • Don't add too much mayonnaise. The salad should be creamy, but not too heavy.
  • Chill the salad for at least 2 hours before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld and the salad to set.
  • Garnish the salad with fresh herbs or chopped nuts before serving. This will add a pop of color and flavor.

Conclusion:

Alton Brown's Ma Ma's Congealed Christmas Salad is a unique and delicious dish that is perfect for any holiday gathering. It is easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time. So, next time you are looking for a festive and crowd-pleasing dish, give this salad a try. You won't be disappointed!

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