European > German

Hirtenkäse and Potato Gratin Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 lbs. potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 cup Hirtenkäse (German-style feta cheese), crumbled
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp. dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Special equipment needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Mandoline or sharp knife for slicing potatoes

Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together heavy cream, milk, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Add sliced potatoes to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
4. Layer half of the potato mixture in the bottom of the baking dish.
5. Sprinkle half of the Hirtenkäse over the potatoes.
6. Repeat with remaining potato mixture and Hirtenkäse.
7. Pour any remaining cream mixture over the top of the potatoes.
8. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
9. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
10. Remove foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender.
11. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.


Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour 10 minutes
5. Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
8 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories: 315
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 24g
Protein: 9g
Sodium: 300mg
Sugar: 2g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Hirtenkäse can be substituted with regular feta cheese or goat cheese.
- Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half or whole milk.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with any hard, grated cheese.

Variations:
- Add sliced onions or leeks to the potato mixture for extra flavor.
- Top with breadcrumbs or crushed potato chips for added crunch.
- Add cooked bacon or ham for a meatier version.

Tips and tricks:
- Use a mandoline or sharp knife to slice the potatoes thinly and evenly.
- Make sure the potatoes are fully coated in the cream mixture to ensure even cooking.
- Let the gratin cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the cream to thicken and set.

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 the gratin in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.

Garnishes:
Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley.

Pairings:
Pair with a green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Suggested side dishes:
Roasted Brussels sprouts, sautéed spinach, or a mixed green salad.

Troubleshooting advice:
If the top of the gratin is browning too quickly, cover with foil and continue baking until the potatoes are tender.

Food safety advice:
Make sure the potatoes are fully cooked before serving to avoid foodborne illness.

Food history:
Hirtenkäse is a type of German-style feta cheese that is made from sheep's milk. It has a tangy, salty flavor and is often used in traditional German dishes like potato gratin.

Flavor profiles:
Creamy, tangy, savory

Serving suggestions:
Serve as a side dish with roasted meats or as a main dish with a green salad.

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Region: German

Taste: Creamy, Cheesy, Savory, Herby