Grillades facts for kids
Grillades (say "gree-yahds") are a delicious dish from Creole cooking. They are usually made with thin pieces of meat. Most often, people use beef, but you can also find them made with veal or pork.
People often eat grillades for breakfast or brunch. They come with a tasty gravy, usually served over a creamy side dish called grits. This makes a hearty and traditional meal.
How are Grillades Made?
Even though the name "grillades" sounds like "grilled," this dish is not cooked on a grill. Instead, the meat is fried or seared in a pan.
To make grillades with gravy, chefs follow a few steps:
- First, the meat is cut into round, flat pieces, like small medallions.
- Then, these meat pieces are seasoned with spices.
- After seasoning, they are lightly coated in flour.
- Next, the meat is browned in a pan.
- Finally, the meat is slowly cooked in a flavorful liquid. This cooking method is called braising.
The special liquid for braising is often made from a roux (a mix of fat and flour that thickens sauces) and tomatoes. Many recipes also include the "holy trinity" of cooking. This is a mix of chopped bell pepper, onion, and celery. Other common ingredients are garlic, beef broth, and sometimes wine. Spices like thyme, bay leaves, and cayenne or hot sauce add a little kick! The braising liquid then becomes the rich gravy for the finished dish.
Serving Grillades
When you order "grillades and grits," the grillades are placed on a bed of grits. Often, these are cheese grits, which are extra creamy and flavorful. The warm, savory gravy is then poured over both the meat and the grits.
You can find this classic dish served in many restaurants, especially in the city of New Orleans, Louisiana. It's a must-try if you want to taste traditional Creole food!
