Broccoli Gratin with Celery and Potatoes

To prepare a culinary delight full of flavors and textures, we will start with a selection of fresh, quality ingredients. We begin by thoroughly washing the potatoes and celery, removing the skin with a sharp knife. After we have peeled the vegetables, we cut them into equal-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. Then, we place them in a large pot with cold water and a teaspoon of salt, bringing everything to a boil.

While the potatoes and celery are boiling, we will take care of the broccoli. We wash the broccoli under a stream of cold water, then divide it into small florets. When the water in the pot starts to boil, we add the broccoli florets and let them cook for about 3 minutes. It is essential not to let them cook too long to retain their vibrant color and crunchy texture. After the time is up, we remove the broccoli with a slotted spoon and plunge them immediately into cold water to stop the cooking process. We leave them in a colander to drain well.

Now, it’s time to prepare the baking dish. We choose a heat-resistant dish, generously greasing it with butter, making sure all corners are covered. We sprinkle a generous layer of breadcrumbs on the bottom of the dish, which will form a delicious crust at the end. After checking the potatoes and celery, we drain the water from the pot. In a large bowl, we mix the boiled vegetables with finely crushed garlic, if we desire an extra flavor.

Now, we start building the layers of the dish. We place half of the potato and celery mixture in the dish with breadcrumbs. On top, we sprinkle a thin layer of grated parmesan, and then we lay half of the broccoli florets. Between the broccoli florets, we add a few cubes of butter, which will melt during baking and add a rich flavor. We continue with the remaining potatoes and celery, followed by another layer of broccoli. We sprinkle a few more cubes of butter and another layer of grated parmesan, covering everything well with breadcrumbs.

To finish the dish, we sprinkle another layer of parmesan on top and add a few tablespoons of sour cream, which will bring creaminess. We preheat the oven to a high temperature and place the dish inside. We let it bake until the surface becomes golden and crispy, which will take about 25-30 minutes.

Once the dish is ready, we take it out of the oven and let it cool slightly. It is served warm, as a savory main dish or as a side dish to pot roast. This dish is not only tasty but also full of nutrients, making it ideal for a family meal or with friends. Bon appétit!