Gratinated Brussels Sprouts

Brussels Sprouts Gratin: A Savory Classic Delicacy

Brussels sprouts gratin is a dish that combines flavor and health, making it an excellent choice for those who want to bring a touch of elegance and refined taste to their tables. This recipe is not only delicious but also a great way to introduce less appreciated vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts, into daily meals. With a creamy texture, a flavorful béchamel sauce, and a crunchy cheese crust, this dish will transform any meal into a feast.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total: 1 hour
Servings: 4

Ingredients needed:
- 250 g Brussels sprouts
- 5-6 cherry tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon breadcrumbs
- For the béchamel sauce:
- 1 small onion
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 250 ml milk
- Thyme (to taste)
- Nutmeg (to taste)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- 100 g sheep cheese
- 2 eggs
- 50 g cheese

Step by Step: Preparing Brussels Sprouts Gratin

1. Preparing the Brussels Sprouts:
Start by cleaning the Brussels sprouts. Remove the first 2-3 outer leaves and set them aside. Then, wash the sprouts well under cold running water. Boil the sprouts in salted water for about 10 minutes, until they become slightly soft but not overcooked.

2. Preparing the Baking Dish:
While the sprouts are boiling, prepare a heat-resistant dish or tray. Grease it with a little olive oil and sprinkle breadcrumbs on the bottom and sides to create a delicious crust.

3. Preparing the Béchamel Sauce:
In a pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Peel and finely chop the onion. Add the chopped onion to the hot oil and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, sprinkle a tablespoon of flour over the onion and stir for a few seconds to combine. It is important not to let the flour brown!

4. Adding the Milk:
Pour 250 ml of milk into the sautéed onion, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Once the sauce begins to thicken, season it with salt, pepper, nutmeg, and thyme to taste. Remove the pan from the heat and let the sauce cool slightly.

5. Preparing the Egg Mixture:
In a separate bowl, beat the 2 eggs with a pinch of salt. Add the crumbled sheep cheese and mix well to obtain a homogeneous composition.

6. Assembling the Dish:
Place the boiled Brussels sprouts in the prepared dish, interspersing them with halved cherry tomatoes. Sprinkle a little thyme over the sprouts and tomatoes for extra flavor. Pour the béchamel sauce evenly over the sprouts and tomatoes, followed by the egg and cheese mixture.

7. Baking:
Place the dish in a preheated oven at 180°C and bake for 30 minutes. After this time, remove the dish and sprinkle the grated cheese on top. Return the dish to the oven for another 10-15 minutes, until the cheese melts and turns golden.

8. Serving:
Once the dish is ready, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. You can garnish it with fresh thyme leaves or a few slices of cherry tomatoes for an attractive appearance. This dish pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or a side of boiled potatoes.

Practical Tips:
- Choosing Brussels Sprouts: When selecting Brussels sprouts, look for small, firm buds without spots or damage.
- Béchamel Sauce: If you want a more flavorful sauce, you can add some chopped garlic or even Parmesan to the béchamel sauce.
- Variations: You can add crispy bacon or sautéed mushrooms to the Brussels sprouts mixture for a rich and savory taste.
- Storage: The dish keeps well in the fridge, in a closed container, for 2-3 days.

Nutritional Information:
Brussels sprouts are an excellent source of vitamins (especially vitamins C and K), fiber, and antioxidants, contributing to a healthy immune system. This recipe has about 350 calories per serving, depending on the type of cheese and the amount of oil used.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other vegetables? Yes, you can replace Brussels sprouts with cauliflower or broccoli for an equally tasty variant.
- Is this recipe suitable for vegans? You can adapt the recipe using almond or soy milk and vegan cheese.
- What drinks pair well with this dish? A dry white wine or a cider aperitif would perfectly complement the rich flavors of the dish.

This Brussels sprouts gratin recipe is not only a culinary delight but also adds a touch of sophistication to any table. Whether served at a special occasion or as part of an ordinary dinner, it is sure to impress! Enjoy!