Brussels sprouts gratin

Brussels Sprouts Gratin: A Delicious and Comforting Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Who doesn’t love the rich flavor and delicate texture of gratinated Brussels sprouts? This dish is not just a simple recipe; it’s a true celebration of ingredients! The origins of Brussels sprouts are steeped in history, but today they are appreciated not only for their taste but also for their nutritional benefits. These miniature vegetables are rich in vitamins C and K, providing a nutrient boost to the body.

We start by ensuring we have all the necessary ingredients at hand. In addition to Brussels sprouts, we will need a creamy béchamel sauce, grated cheese (preferably Parmesan or cheddar), salt, and a dash of imagination. This dish can become the star of the meal, perfect to be served alongside a juicy steak or a fresh salad.

Ingredients you need:
- 500-600 g Brussels sprouts
- 300 ml béchamel sauce
- 100 g grated Parmesan (or cheddar)
- salt, to taste

Step by step to a perfect result:

1. Preparing the Brussels sprouts
We start by cleaning the Brussels sprouts. Remove the outer leaves, which may be less appealing, then wash them well under cold running water. This step not only cleans them but also helps remove impurities.

2. Boiling the Brussels sprouts
In a large pot, fill it with water and add a teaspoon of salt. Place the pot on the heat and, when the water boils, add the Brussels sprouts. Boil them for 8-10 minutes, until a fork easily pierces them, but do not let them become soft. We want to maintain a slightly crunchy texture.

3. Draining and cooling the Brussels sprouts
Once cooked, drain the Brussels sprouts in a colander and let them cool slightly. It is essential to let them drain well; otherwise, your sauce will become more liquid than desired.

4. Preparing the béchamel sauce
If you don’t have ready-made béchamel sauce, you can easily make it at home. In a pan, melt 50 g of butter, add 50 g of flour, and mix well until it forms a paste. Gradually incorporate 500 ml of milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy. You can add a pinch of nutmeg for a special flavor.

5. Assembling the dish
Preheat the oven to 200°C. In a baking dish, place the Brussels sprouts, either whole or halved, depending on your preference. Generously cover them with the béchamel sauce, then sprinkle grated Parmesan on top. This will form a delicious crust during baking.

6. Baking
Place the dish in the oven and let it bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese becomes golden and crispy. The aroma that will fill your kitchen will be simply irresistible.

7. Serving
After the Brussels sprouts are ready, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. They can be served as a side dish alongside meat or as a vegetarian main course with a fresh green salad.

Serving suggestions and variations:
- You can add some fried bacon slices or toasted almonds for an extra crunch and flavor.
- Instead of Parmesan, you can experiment with feta or mozzarella for a different variation.
- Served with a dry white wine, these Brussels sprouts become an elegant choice for a special dinner.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before using.

2. How can I store leftovers?
You can keep the Brussels sprouts in the fridge, in an airtight container, for 2-3 days. Reheat them in the oven to restore their crispy texture.

3. What are the nutritional benefits of Brussels sprouts?
These vegetables are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and essential minerals, making them excellent for the immune system and bone health.

Calories: Approximately 250 kcal per serving, depending on the amount of cheese used.

Cooking these gratinated Brussels sprouts will bring a touch of refinement and comfort to your meals. Whether you serve them for a special occasion or as a simple side dish, they are sure to leave an unforgettable impression. So, put on your apron and get ready to enjoy a recipe that combines tradition with innovation!