Calçots with Allioli and Charred Sourdough
Rated 5.0 stars by 4 users
Author:
Drogo
Servings
3-4 People
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
25 minutes
Discover the authentic flavours of Catalonia with calçots with allioli, a traditional dish celebrating the smoky sweetness of grilled calçots. Calcots are mild, sweet onions from Valls in Catalonia, traditionally cooked over an open fire until the outer layers are completely blackened. They are then wrapped in newspaper to gently finish cooking in their own steam, creating a tender, naturally sweet centre with a delicious smoky flavour.
Traditionally enjoyed at a calçotada, a winter food festival where freshly harvested calçots are shared with grilled meats, wine and good company, this dish is all about simple ingredients and communal dining. To enjoy, peel away the charred outer skin to reveal the soft, sweet onion inside, dip generously into creamy allioli and savour every bite. It may be a little messy, but that’s part of the fun.
Served with charred sourdough, this classic Catalan combination brings together smoky grilled vegetables, rich garlic flavours and rustic textures for a memorable sharing experience.
Ingredients
-
2kg calçots
-
2 egg yolks
- 4 cloves garlic, crushed
-
2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 100ml vegetable oil
-
100ml olive oil
- Sourdough bread, sliced
Directions
Method
Light the barbecue. When it is ready, char the calçots all over until blackened - around 8 minutes. Wrap in newspaper in bundles of 4-5 and leave to steam for 15 minutes.
Make the allioli by combining the egg yolks and garlic in the bowl of a stand mixer (alternatively, you can whisk by hand or use another electric whisk). Begin adding the oil a drop at a time, waiting for each to be emulsified before adding the next. As the mayonnaise starts to thicken, start adding the oil in a steady stream until it is all used up.
Whisk in the lemon juice and some salt.
Char the sourdough on the barbecue and serve with the calçots and allioli.
Recipe Note
What is the best way to make calçots with allioli?
The best calçots with allioli are made by grilling them over high heat until the outside is charred and the inside is tender. Pairing them with a fresh allioli recipe creates the traditional balance of smoky, sweet, and garlicky flavours.
What is charred sourdough and why is it served with calçots?
Charred sourdough is sourdough bread toasted over a grill or flame until crisp with a smoky edge. It is the perfect accompaniment for dipping into creamy allioli and enjoying alongside grilled calçots.
How is this calçots recipe traditionally served?
A classic calçots recipe is served during Catalan gatherings called calçotadas, where Catalan grilled onions are cooked over fire and enjoyed with a rich dipping sauce.
What is an allioli recipe made from?
A traditional allioli recipe combines garlic and olive oil to create a creamy, bold sauce. Many modern versions also include egg yolk and lemon juice for a smoother texture.
How to cook calçots without a BBQ?
To learn how to cook calçots without a BBQ, use a grill pan, oven grill, or high-heat roasting method. While open flames create the most authentic smoky flavour, indoor cooking can still deliver delicious results.
Ingredients you'll need
