Sure! Here is a classic recipe for Gratin Dauphinois, a traditional French dish made with potatoes, cream, and cheese. It’s a rich and comforting side dish that pairs wonderfully with meats.
Gratin Dauphinois Recipe
Ingredients
2 lbs (about 1 kg) starchy potatoes (like Yukon Gold or Russet)
2 cups (500 ml) heavy cream
1 cup (250 ml) whole milk
23 garlic cloves, minced
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg (optional)
1 cup (100 g) grated Gruyère cheese (or a mix of Gruyère and Parmesan)
1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for greasing the baking dish)
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the baking dish: Use the butter to grease a baking dish (a 9×13 inch or similar size works well).
3. Slice the potatoes: Peel the potatoes and slice them thinly (about 1/8 inch thick). A mandoline slicer can be very helpful for this.
4. Mix the cream and milk: In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Stir well.
5. Layer the potatoes: Place a layer of sliced potatoes at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Pour some of the cream mixture over the potatoes, ensuring they are well coated. Sprinkle with a bit of grated cheese.
6. Repeat layers: Continue layering the potatoes, cream mixture, and cheese until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of the cream mixture topped with cheese.
7. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil (shiny side down) and bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes.
8. Brown the top: After 45 minutes, remove the foil and let it bake for an additional 1530 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
9. Rest and serve: Once cooked, let the gratin rest for about 510 minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set slightly, making it easier to serve.
Tips:
For added flavor, you can incorporate herbs such as thyme or rosemary.
Some variations include adding onions or using different cheeses, but the classic version is simple and delicious!
Serving this dish alongside roasted meats or simply a fresh green salad makes for a delightful meal.
Enjoy your Gratin Dauphinois! Bon appétit!