Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 head of broccoli, chopped into small florets
- 1 cup of Circassian smoked cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup of butter
- 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
- 2 cups of milk
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon of paprika
Special equipment needed:
- Casserole dish
- Saucepan
- Whisk
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the flour and whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens.
5. Add the salt, black pepper, and paprika. Whisk until well combined.
6. Add the grated Circassian smoked cheese to the saucepan and stir until melted.
7. In a separate pot, steam the broccoli florets until tender.
8. In a casserole dish, layer the steamed broccoli on the bottom.
9. Pour the cheese sauce over the broccoli.
10. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs on top of the cheese sauce.
11. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Temperature:
375°F (190°C)
Serving size:
4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 320
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 18g
Sodium: 590mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Circassian smoked cheese can be substituted with any other smoked cheese, such as smoked cheddar or gouda.
- Broccoli can be substituted with any other green vegetable, such as asparagus or green beans.
- Breadcrumbs can be substituted with crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs.
Variations:
- Add cooked chicken or ham to make it a heartier dish.
- Add sliced mushrooms to the cheese sauce for extra flavor.
- Use a combination of different cheeses, such as cheddar and parmesan, for a more complex flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- To make the cheese sauce smoother, use a whisk to stir constantly while adding the milk.
- To make the casserole more visually appealing, sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs on top before serving.
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 (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the casserole in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
- Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika.
Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Pair with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted carrots
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Grilled zucchini
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese sauce is too thick, add more milk until it reaches the desired consistency.
- If the breadcrumbs are not browning, place the casserole under the broiler for a few minutes.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure the casserole is heated through before serving to avoid any foodborne illnesses.
Food history:
- Circassian smoked cheese is a type of cheese that originated in the Caucasus region of Russia.
Flavor profiles:
- The Circassian smoked cheese adds a smoky and slightly salty flavor to the casserole, while the broccoli adds a fresh and slightly bitter flavor.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the casserole as a main dish for a vegetarian meal, or as a side dish for a larger meal.
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