Ingredients with Measurements:
- 8 cups of cubed French bread
- 2 cups of chopped fresh spinach
- 1 cup of diced Black Forest ham
- 1 cup of shredded Swiss cheese
- 6 large eggs
- 2 1/2 cups of milk
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Aluminum foil
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the cubed French bread to the mixing bowl and toss to coat.
5. Add the chopped spinach, diced Black Forest ham, and shredded Swiss cheese to the mixing bowl and stir to combine.
6. Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it out evenly.
7. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the mixture.
8. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
9. Bake for 45 minutes.
10. Remove the aluminum foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Temperature:
350°F
Serving size:
8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 350
Fat: 16g
Carbohydrates: 29g
Protein: 21g
Sodium: 740mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of Black Forest ham, you can use regular ham or cooked bacon.
- Instead of Swiss cheese, you can use cheddar cheese or Gruyere cheese.
Variations:
- Add diced tomatoes or roasted red peppers for extra flavor.
- Use whole wheat bread instead of French bread for a healthier option.
- Add sliced mushrooms or diced onions for more texture.
Tips and tricks:
- Let the strata sit for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow it to set.
- You can prepare the strata the night before and refrigerate it overnight. Just bake it in the morning for an easy breakfast.
- If the top of the strata is browning too quickly, cover it with aluminum foil while baking.
Storage instructions:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the strata on a platter with fresh herbs or chopped scallions on top for a pop of color.
Garnishes:
Fresh herbs or chopped scallions
Pairings:
Fresh fruit salad or a side of roasted potatoes
Suggested side dishes:
Roasted potatoes or a fresh fruit salad
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the strata is too dry, add more milk to the mixture before baking.
- If the strata is too wet, add more bread to the mixture before baking.
Food safety advice:
Make sure the internal temperature of the strata reaches 160°F to ensure it is fully cooked.
Food history:
The strata is a classic breakfast casserole that originated in the United States in the 1900s.
Flavor profiles:
Savory, cheesy, and slightly tangy from the Dijon mustard.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the strata for breakfast or brunch with a side of roasted potatoes or a fresh fruit salad.
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