Balaton Cheese and Potato Gratin Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 lbs. potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp. butter
- 2 tbsp. all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup grated Balaton cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp. chopped fresh parsley

Special equipment needed:
- Large baking dish
- Saucepan
- Whisk

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.

2. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and cook until softened.

3. Add flour and whisk until smooth. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until mixture thickens.

4. Add grated Balaton cheese and stir until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Layer sliced potatoes in a large baking dish. Pour cheese sauce over potatoes.

6. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.

7. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.

8. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving.


- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 1 hour
Temperature:
- 375°F
Serving size:
- 6 servings

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 12g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Balaton cheese can be substituted with any other type of cheese.

Variations:
- Add cooked bacon or ham for extra flavor.
- Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes.

Tips and tricks:
- To make slicing potatoes easier, use a mandoline.
- For a crispy top, broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.

Storage instructions:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.

Garnishes:
- Sprinkle with additional chopped fresh parsley or chives.

Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables.

Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Green beans with garlic and lemon

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese sauce is too thick, add more milk until desired consistency is reached.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure potatoes are fully cooked before serving.

Food history:
- Gratin dishes originated in French cuisine and typically consist of a creamy sauce and a crispy topping.

Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, cheesy, savory

Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a main dish or as a side dish with a protein.

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Region: Hungarian

Taste: Creamy, Cheesy, Savory, Rich, Comforting