Ingredients with Measurements:
- 8 slices of bread, cubed
- 6 eggs
- 1 1/2 cups of milk
- 1/2 cup of heavy cream
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup of shredded Gruyere cheese
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh chives
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh tarragon
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup of unsalted butter, melted
Special equipment needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Grease the baking dish with butter.
3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Gruyere cheese, parsley, chives, tarragon, basil, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the cubed bread to the mixing bowl and toss to coat.
5. Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish.
6. Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the mixture.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
8. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45-50 minutes
Temperature:
350°F
Serving size:
8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 320
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 14g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Any type of bread can be used in place of the cubed bread.
- Any type of cheese can be used in place of the Parmesan and Gruyere cheese.
- Dried herbs can be used in place of fresh herbs.
Variations:
- Add cooked bacon or sausage to the mixture before baking.
- Use different types of cheese or herbs to change the flavor.
- Add vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms to the mixture before baking.
Tips and tricks:
- Let the mixture sit in the refrigerator overnight for a more flavorful dish.
- Use day-old bread for the best texture.
- Cut the bread into small cubes for even cooking.
Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored 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 on a platter with fresh herbs and grated cheese on top.
Garnishes:
Fresh herbs and grated cheese.
Pairings:
Fruit salad, bacon, or sausage.
Suggested side dishes:
Green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the center is not set, bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.
- If the top is browning too quickly, cover with foil and continue baking.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to cook the strata to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
Food history:
The strata originated in the United States in the 1900s as a way to use up leftover bread.
Flavor profiles:
Savory, cheesy, and herbaceous.
Serving suggestions:
Serve for breakfast or brunch.
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