Shaker Herbed Buttered Parsnips....A Thanksgiving Recipe

Herbed Buttered Parsnips

Gourmet November 1993

"Probably the Shakers' greatest gift to American cookery was their knowledge and liberal use of herbs, which were relied upon to vary and enliven standard dishes. "
I like to softly sing the shaker hymn, "Simple Gifts" while I cook this dish...it seems fitting.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Yield: Serves 8
3 pounds parsnips, peeled and cut diagonally into 1/2-inch-thick slices1/2 stick (1/4 cup) unsalted butter, cut into pieces and softened1/3 cup finely chopped fresh parsley leaves1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped fine, or 1 teaspoon dried, crumbled1 1/2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice, or to taste
In a steamer set over boiling water steam the parsnips, covered, for 8 minutes, or until they are tender. While the parsnips are steaming, put the butter, the parsley, and the thyme in a heatproof serving bowl. Add the hot parsnips and toss them with the butter mixture, the lemon juice, and salt and pepper to taste.

With my basket under my arm, I headed out to the garden this morning to gather what I needed.

The herbs scenting my hands with natures perfume.

'Tis the gift to be simple,

'tis the gift to be free,

'tis the gift to come down where you ought to be,

And when we find ourselves in the place just right,

It will be in the valley of love and delight.
Refrain:
When true simplicity is gained,

To bow and to bend we shan't be ashamed.

To turn, turn will be our delight,

'Til by turning, turning we come round right
'Tis the gift to be loved and that love to return,

'Tis the gift to be taught and a richer gift to learn,

And when we expect of others what we try to live each day,

Then we'll all live together and we'll all learn to say,
Refrain:
'Tis the gift to have friends and a true friend to be,

'Tis the gift to think of others not to only think of "me",

And when we hear what others really think and really feel,

Then we'll all live together with a love that is real.
Refrain: