Cauliflower gratin with mushrooms and cheese

Cauliflower gratin with mushrooms and cheese: a delicious, comforting recipe, perfect for a family dinner or to impress friends. This recipe combines the rich flavors of mushrooms with the delicate texture of cauliflower, all topped with a layer of melted cheese that will turn golden and crispy in the oven.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 5

Necessary ingredients:

- 1.25 kg fresh cauliflower
- 250 g mushrooms (fresh or canned)
- 120 g margarine
- 100 g flour
- 200 ml milk
- 2 eggs
- 50 g grated cheese
- 2 MAGGI mushroom cubes
- Salt and pepper to taste

Step by step to achieve a perfect result:

1. Preparing the cauliflower:
Start by cleaning the cauliflower, removing the stems and leaves. Wash the cauliflower under cold running water, then place it in a bowl of cold salted water for about 10-15 minutes. This step helps remove any impurities and will make the cauliflower crisper.

2. Boiling the cauliflower:
After soaking in salted water, rinse the cauliflower and boil it in a pot of salted boiling water. Boil for 5-7 minutes until slightly soft but not fully cooked. Drain the cauliflower well and set it aside.

3. Preparing the mushrooms:
If using fresh mushrooms, clean and slice them. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and add a few tablespoons of margarine. Sauté the mushrooms for 5-7 minutes until they are lightly browned. If using canned mushrooms, drain them and quickly rinse them in the pan to disinfect.

4. Preparing the béchamel sauce:
In a saucepan, melt the remaining margarine. Add the sifted flour and quickly mix to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn it. Gradually add the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens. Finally, add the beaten eggs, MAGGI mushroom cubes, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous composition.

5. Assembling the dish:
In a baking dish, place the boiled cauliflower, then add the sautéed mushrooms. Pour the béchamel sauce evenly over the vegetables. Sprinkle the grated cheese on top to create a delicious crust.

6. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the baking dish in the oven and let it bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and crispy.

7. Serving:
Let the dish cool for a few minutes before cutting. It is delicious both warm and at room temperature. You can serve the gratin cauliflower alongside a fresh salad or as a side dish for meat.

Practical tips:

- Varying ingredients: You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or parmesan, to add a distinctive note. You can also add herbs like thyme or oregano for an extra flavor boost.
- Texture: If you like a crunchy texture, you can sprinkle breadcrumbs over the cheese before baking.
- Cooking mushrooms: Cooking the mushrooms before adding them to the dish helps intensify the flavors and reduce moisture.

Nutritional information:
This cauliflower gratin recipe is rich in vitamins and minerals, providing an excellent source of vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. It is a healthier option compared to other gratin dishes, having a low-calorie content due to the use of cauliflower and mushrooms.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before using.
- How can I turn this recipe into a vegan version?
Replace dairy products with vegan alternatives, such as almond or soy milk, and use an egg substitute or banana puree to bind the mixture.

This cauliflower gratin recipe with mushrooms and cheese is more than just a simple dish; it is a culinary experience that will bring joy to your tables. So, don't hesitate to embark on this gastronomic journey! Enjoy every bite and share with your loved ones!