Gratinated Brussels Sprouts

Delicious Gratinated Brussels Sprouts Recipe

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Servings: 2-3

Gratinated Brussels sprouts are a savory dish, perfect for adding a touch of elegance to your table, whether for a special occasion or a family dinner. This often-underestimated vegetable reveals its true beauty and flavor through this cooking method. Gratinating gives a crunchy texture on top and a delicious creaminess inside, transforming Brussels sprouts into a true feast for the taste buds.

The Story of Brussels Sprouts

Although Brussels sprouts have been cultivated for centuries, their popularity has significantly increased in recent decades. They are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, providing an excellent source of vitamins C and K. This easy-to-make recipe combines the flavors of the vegetables with the creaminess of the sauce, offering a healthy and delicious dish.

Ingredients

- 250 g Brussels sprouts (fresh or frozen)
- 50 g butter (cut into small pieces)
- 100 g sour cream
- 100 g milk
- 150 g cheese (grated)
- 1 egg
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)

Useful Tools

- Oven-safe dish
- Pot for boiling
- Grater for cheese
- Silicone spatula or wooden spoon

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Brussels Sprouts
If using frozen Brussels sprouts, there's no need to thaw them before boiling. If you have fresh sprouts, remove the outer leaves and trim the base of each sprout. Place the sprouts in a pot of boiling salted water and let them cook for 15 minutes. If using frozen sprouts, boil them for 5-7 minutes.

2. Preheating the Oven
While the sprouts are boiling, preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). This is essential for achieving a golden and crispy crust.

3. Preparing the Cooking Dish
Grease an oven-safe dish with some of the cut-up butter. Ensure the greasing is even so that the sprouts do not stick.

4. Arranging the Sprouts
After boiling, drain the Brussels sprouts and place them in the prepared dish, preferably in a single layer. This will allow for even baking and a pleasant texture.

5. Preparing the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk the egg with the sour cream, milk, half of the grated cheese, salt, and pepper. Make sure the ingredients are well combined to create a creamy sauce.

6. Assembling the Dish
Pour the sauce evenly over the sprouts in the dish. Place a few pieces of butter on top to add extra flavor and help with browning.

7. Baking
Place the dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy. Check occasionally to avoid burning.

8. Serving
Once the gratin is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. You can garnish it with freshly chopped parsley or dill for an appealing look and a touch of freshness. It can be served as a main dish or as a side with meat.

Practical Tips

- Fresh vs. Frozen Sprouts: If you have access to fresh Brussels sprouts, they will provide a better texture. However, frozen ones are just as tasty and convenient.
- Substitutions: If you don't have cheese on hand, you can use cheddar or mozzarella for a different flavor. You can also experiment with various types of cheese based on your preferences.
- Seasoning: Add spices like nutmeg or garlic powder to the sauce for a more complex flavor.
- Variations: You can add diced bacon or sliced almonds for an extra crunch.

Successful Pairings

Gratinated Brussels sprouts pair wonderfully with grilled chicken breast or beef roast. Additionally, a bottle of dry white wine will perfectly complement the meal, adding an extra touch of elegance.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other vegetables?
Absolutely! This recipe can be adapted with other vegetables like cauliflower or broccoli.

2. How can I make the gratin healthier?
Replace the sour cream with Greek yogurt or skim milk, and use low-fat cheese.

3. What if I don't have an oven-safe dish?
You can use any baking pan, ensuring it is well greased.

Nutritional Benefits

Brussels sprouts are an excellent source of vitamins C and K, dietary fiber, and antioxidants that help improve immune health and cardiovascular health. This dish is not only delicious but also contributes to a balanced diet.

Calories

A serving of gratinated Brussels sprouts contains approximately 300-350 calories, depending on the amount of cheese and sour cream used. It is a relatively light dish but rich in nutrients that can easily be integrated into a varied diet.

Personal Note

This gratinated Brussels sprouts recipe is one of my favorites because it brings a delightful contrast between the crispy top and the creaminess inside. It's easy to prepare, yet the result is impressive! I encourage you to share this recipe with loved ones and give them the chance to discover a vegetable that definitely deserves more attention.

Enjoy your meal!