Aromatic Potato Gratin

Aromatic Potato Gratin

If you're looking for a recipe that transforms plain potatoes into the stars of the meal, the aromatic potato gratin is the perfect choice. This recipe is simple, but the final result will impress your family and friends. Dressed in melted cheddar cheese and flavored with fresh herbs, the potatoes become a comforting and delicious dish, ideal for any occasion.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 6 servings

Ingredients:

- 675 g potatoes (preferably new potatoes or potatoes for mashing)
- 2 medium tomatoes (preferably ripe, for an intense flavor)
- 125 g grated cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Spices (thyme, basil, rosemary, parsley) – use fresh herbs for a more intense flavor
- 150 ml cream
- 70 g mozzarella, cut into small cubes
- 30 g butter, for greasing the dish

Preparation:

1. Preparing the dish: Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. Grease a suitable baking dish with butter, ensuring all corners are covered. This step will help prevent the gratin from sticking and will provide a golden and crispy crust.

2. Slicing the potatoes: Peel and wash the potatoes, then slice them very thinly. You can use a sharp knife or a mandoline to get uniform slices. These will bake evenly and absorb the flavors from the cheese and spices.

3. Layering the ingredients: Place a first layer of potato slices on the bottom of the dish, covering the entire surface. Sprinkle a pinch of salt, pepper, and a few spices (thyme and basil are excellent). Continue to add alternating layers of potatoes, tomato slices, spices, and grated cheddar cheese. Ensure that the last layer is made of potatoes to achieve a beautiful crust.

4. Adding cream and cheese: Once you have finished layering the ingredients, pour the cream evenly over the last layer of potatoes. This will add creaminess and help bind all the ingredients together. Grate the remaining cheddar cheese on top and sprinkle the cubes of mozzarella. The mozzarella will melt beautifully, giving them a special taste and texture.

5. Baking: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour and 10 minutes. Check if the potatoes are soft by inserting a fork at the end. If the cheese browns too quickly, you can cover the gratin with aluminum foil, removing it for the last 10 minutes to achieve a golden crust.

6. Serving: Once the gratin is ready, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before portioning. Serve warm, as a main course or side dish alongside a juicy steak.

Helpful tips:

- Choosing potatoes: New potatoes are preferred due to their creamy texture, but you can also use other types of potatoes, such as red potatoes, for a different taste.
- Customizing the recipe: You can add other vegetables, such as onions, garlic, or a few slices of mushrooms for extra flavor. Also, replace the cheddar cheese with other types of cheese, such as Gouda or Gruyère, for a different culinary experience.
- Side dishes: This gratin pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or grilled vegetables. For a complete meal, you can serve it alongside a glass of white wine or fresh lemonade.

Nutritional benefits:

Potatoes are a good source of carbohydrates and contain essential vitamins such as vitamin C and B6, while cheese provides protein and calcium, contributing to bone health. This gratin can be a nutritious option, especially when combined with fresh vegetables.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use lactose-free cheese? Yes, for those who are lactose intolerant, there are many alternatives available on the market.
- What can I do with leftovers? The gratin keeps well in the refrigerator and can be reheated the next day. It is delicious cold, as a quick snack.

This aromatic potato gratin recipe is more than just a simple dish; it is an opportunity to bring family and friends together. Experiment, customize, and enjoy every bite! It will surely become one of your favorite recipes.