Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup grated Crucolo cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
Special equipment needed:
- Baking dish
- Saucepan
- Whisk
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a saucepan, heat the olive oil and 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 grated Crucolo cheese, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
6. In a separate pot, steam the broccoli florets until tender.
7. Place the steamed broccoli in a baking dish.
8. Pour the cheese sauce over the broccoli.
9. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the top of the cheese sauce.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 375°F
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Protein: 14g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Crucolo cheese can be substituted with Gruyere or Fontina cheese.
- Olive oil can be substituted with vegetable oil.
- Butter can be substituted with margarine.
- All-purpose flour can be substituted with gluten-free flour.
Variations:
- Add cooked bacon or ham for a meatier version.
- Substitute broccoli with cauliflower or asparagus.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to whisk the cheese sauce constantly to prevent lumps.
- Steam the broccoli until it is tender but still has a slight crunch.
- Use fresh breadcrumbs for a crispier topping.
Storage instructions:
- Store any 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 the gratin in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
- Garnish with chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme.
Garnishes:
- Chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme.
Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted carrots
- Green beans
- Mashed potatoes
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese sauce is too thick, add more milk.
- If the breadcrumbs are not crispy enough, broil for a few minutes at the end of the cooking time.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the broccoli thoroughly to prevent any foodborne illnesses.
Food history:
- Gratin originated in France and is a dish that typically consists of a vegetable or meat topped with a browned crust of breadcrumbs and cheese.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, cheesy, and savory.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a main dish or as a side dish with your favorite protein.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: N/A