Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 head of broccoli, chopped into florets
- 1 cup of Kwaito cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup of milk
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
Special equipment needed:
- Casserole dish
- Saucepan
- Mixing bowl
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the flour to the melted butter and whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly.
5. Add the salt and black pepper to the sauce and continue whisking until it thickens.
6. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the grated Kwaito cheese until it melts.
7. In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli florets and the cheese sauce.
8. Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish.
9. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the casserole.
10. Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the broccoli is tender.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
Temperature:
375°F (190°C)
Serving size:
4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 250
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 12g
Sodium: 500mg
Sugar: 3g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Kwaito cheese can be substituted with any other type of cheese that melts well, such as cheddar or mozzarella.
- Breadcrumbs can be substituted with crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs.
Variations:
- Add cooked chicken or ham to the casserole for a protein boost.
- Substitute the broccoli with cauliflower or a mix of both.
- Add diced onions or garlic to the cheese sauce for extra flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before adding them to the cheese sauce for a softer texture.
- Use a mix of different cheeses for a more complex flavor.
- To make the casserole creamier, add an extra 1/4 cup of milk to the cheese sauce.
Storage instructions:
Store any leftover casserole 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 or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the casserole in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives over the top of the casserole for a pop of color.
Pairings:
Serve the casserole with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted carrots
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Grilled asparagus
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese sauce is too thick, add more milk until it reaches the desired consistency.
- If the breadcrumbs are not browning, place the casserole under the broiler for a few minutes.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to cook the casserole until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure that it is safe to eat.
Food history:
Kwaito cheese is a type of South African cheese that is similar to cheddar. It is named after the Kwaito music genre, which originated in South Africa in the 1990s.
Flavor profiles:
The Kwaito cheese adds a rich and tangy flavor to the casserole, while the broccoli provides a fresh and slightly bitter taste.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the casserole as a main dish for lunch or dinner.
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Region: South African