Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 large tomatoes, sliced
- 2 cups of Hegarty's cheddar cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup of butter, melted
- 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
- 2 cups of milk
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
Special equipment needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Cheese grater
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and melted butter. Mix well and set aside.
3. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens.
5. Add the salt and black pepper. Stir well.
6. Add the grated Hegarty's cheddar cheese to the saucepan and stir until melted.
7. In a 9x13 inch baking dish, layer the sliced tomatoes.
8. Pour the cheese sauce over the tomatoes, making sure to cover them completely.
9. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the cheese sauce.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
11. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 350
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 17g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Hegarty's cheddar cheese can be substituted with any other type of cheddar cheese.
- Breadcrumbs can be substituted with panko breadcrumbs or crushed crackers.
- Butter can be substituted with margarine or vegetable oil.
- All-purpose flour can be substituted with gluten-free flour.
Variations:
- Add sliced onions or garlic to the tomato layer for extra flavor.
- Add cooked bacon or ham to the cheese sauce for a meaty version.
- Use different types of cheese, such as Gouda or Parmesan, for a different flavor profile.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to slice the tomatoes evenly for even cooking.
- Use fresh breadcrumbs for a crispy topping.
- Let the gratin cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese sauce to set.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover gratin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the gratin 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 fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, for a pop of color.
Garnishes:
- Fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley
- Cracked black pepper
Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad for a light meal.
- Pair with crusty bread for dipping in the cheese sauce.
Suggested side dishes:
- Mixed green salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese sauce is too thick, add more milk to thin it out.
- If the breadcrumb topping is not crispy enough, broil for a few minutes at the end of cooking time.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash the tomatoes thoroughly before slicing.
- Store any leftovers in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days.
Food history:
- Gratin dishes originated in French cuisine and typically consist of a creamy sauce and a crispy topping.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, cheesy, tangy, and slightly sweet from the tomatoes.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a main dish or as a side dish to complement a larger meal.
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