Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound broccoli florets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup grated Cincar cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Special Equipment Needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Large pot
- Whisk
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 3-4 minutes, until tender. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper and cook for another minute.
4. Sprinkle the flour over the onion mixture and whisk until combined. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly, until the mixture is smooth.
5. Cook the mixture for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until it thickens.
6. Add the grated Cincar cheese to the skillet and stir until melted and smooth.
7. Add the cooked broccoli to the skillet and stir until coated with the cheese sauce.
8. Transfer the broccoli mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish.
9. In a small bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the broccoli.
10. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the cheese sauce is bubbly.
11. Let the bake cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 375°F
Serving size:
- This recipe serves 6 people.
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 266
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Protein: 13g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 528mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Cincar cheese can be substituted with any other type of cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella.
- Broccoli can be substituted with any other vegetable, such as cauliflower or asparagus.
- All-purpose flour can be substituted with gluten-free flour.
Variations:
- Add cooked chicken or ham to the broccoli mixture for a heartier meal.
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers to the broccoli mixture for extra flavor.
- Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs for a crunchier topping.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to cook the broccoli until it is tender but still slightly firm, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Use a whisk to make sure the cheese sauce is smooth and free of lumps.
- Let the bake cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese sauce to set.
Storage Instructions:
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
- Reheat the leftovers in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, until heated through.
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the bake in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
- Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives.
Garnishes:
- Chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives.
Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad or crusty bread.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Green salad with vinaigrette dressing
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the cheese sauce is too thick, add more milk until it reaches the desired consistency.
- If the breadcrumb topping is not crispy enough, broil the bake for a few minutes at the end of the cooking time.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to cook the broccoli and chicken to a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
Food History:
- Cincar cheese is a type of cheese that originated in the Balkans, specifically in the region of Montenegro.
Flavor Profiles:
- Creamy, cheesy, savory
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the Cincar Cheese and Broccoli Bake as a main dish for a family dinner or potluck.
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