European > German

Kochkäse and Potato Gratin Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 1/2 pounds potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup Kochkäse cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Special equipment needed:
- Mandoline slicer (optional)
- 9x13 inch baking dish

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.

2. In a large bowl, combine the grated Kochkäse cheese, heavy cream, milk, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.

3. Add the thinly sliced potatoes to the bowl and toss until the potatoes are coated evenly with the cheese mixture.

4. Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter.

5. Layer the potato slices in the baking dish, making sure to spread them out evenly.

6. Pour any remaining cheese mixture over the potatoes.

7. In a small bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs and melted butter.

8. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the potatoes.

9. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.

10. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender.

11. Let the gratin cool for a few minutes before serving.


- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Temperature:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
Serving size:
- This recipe serves 6-8 people.

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- If you can't find Kochkäse cheese, you can substitute it with any other semi-soft cheese, such as Gouda or Fontina.
- You can use half and half instead of heavy cream.
- Panko breadcrumbs can be used instead of regular breadcrumbs.

Variations:
- Add sliced onions or leeks to the potato mixture for extra flavor.
- Sprinkle chopped herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, over the top of the gratin before baking.
- Add cooked bacon or ham to the potato mixture for a heartier dish.

Tips and tricks:
- Use a mandoline slicer to get even slices of potatoes.
- Make sure to coat the potatoes evenly with the cheese mixture to ensure that every bite is delicious.
- Let the gratin cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set.

Storage instructions:
- Store any leftovers 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 chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color.

Garnishes:
- Chopped parsley or chives

Pairings:
- This dish pairs well with a green salad or roasted vegetables.

Suggested side dishes:
- Green salad
- Roasted vegetables

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the top of the gratin is browning too quickly, cover it with foil and continue baking.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands and any utensils or surfaces that come into contact with raw potatoes to prevent the spread of bacteria.

Food history:
- Kochkäse is a traditional German cheese that is made by heating sour milk until it curdles, then straining out the whey. It has a tangy, slightly sour flavor that pairs well with potatoes.

Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, cheesy, tangy, savory

Serving suggestions:
- Serve the gratin as a main dish with a side salad, or as a side dish with roasted meat or poultry.

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Region: German

Taste: Creamy, Cheesy, Savory, Comforting