Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 head of broccoli, chopped into small florets
- 250g Hermelín cheese, cut into small cubes
- 1 cup of milk
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
Special equipment needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Large pot for boiling broccoli
- Whisk
- Mixing bowl
- Saucepan
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the chopped broccoli and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.
3. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns golden brown.
4. Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Add the garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens.
5. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked broccoli and Hermelín cheese cubes. Pour the sauce over the mixture and stir to coat evenly.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Temperature:
375°F (190°C)
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 315
Fat: 24g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 14g
Sodium: 420mg
Sugar: 4g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Hermelín cheese can be substituted with Camembert or Brie cheese.
- All-purpose flour can be substituted with gluten-free flour or cornstarch.
- Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half or whole milk.
Variations:
- Add cooked chicken or ham to the casserole for a protein boost.
- Substitute broccoli with cauliflower or asparagus for a different flavor.
- Add chopped onions or mushrooms to the sauce for extra flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to cook the broccoli until it is tender but still firm to the bite.
- Use a whisk to prevent lumps from forming in the sauce.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken.
Storage instructions:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the casserole in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
Garnishes:
Garnish with chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or chives.
Pairings:
Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Suggested side dishes:
- Garlic bread
- Roasted potatoes
- Grilled asparagus
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk to thin it out.
- If the top of the casserole is not browning, place it under the broiler for a few minutes.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to cook the casserole until it is heated through to prevent any foodborne illnesses.
Food history:
Hermelín cheese is a soft, creamy cheese that originated in the Czech Republic. It is similar to Camembert or Brie cheese.
Flavor profiles:
This casserole has a creamy, cheesy flavor with a hint of garlic and a crunchy breadcrumb topping.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the casserole as a main dish for dinner or as a side dish for a holiday meal.
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Region: Czech