Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 lbs. potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp. butter
- 2 tbsp. flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 tsp. salt
- 1/2 tsp. black pepper
- 1/2 tsp. nutmeg
- 1 cup grated Mainzer cheese
Special equipment needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Mandoline slicer (optional)
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large pot, boil the sliced potatoes for 5-7 minutes until they are just tender. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic and sauté until softened.
4. Add the flour to the saucepan and stir until it forms a paste. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Add the salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens.
6. Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the baking dish. Pour half of the sauce over the potatoes. Sprinkle half of the grated Mainzer cheese over the sauce.
7. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, sauce, and cheese.
8. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 50-60 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 320
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 31g
Protein: 15g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Mainzer cheese can be substituted with Gouda or Emmental cheese.
- Milk can be substituted with heavy cream for a richer dish.
Variations:
- Add sliced cooked ham or bacon to the layers for a meatier dish.
- Add sliced mushrooms or spinach to the layers for a vegetarian option.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a mandoline slicer to get even slices of potatoes.
- Let the gratin cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
Garnishes:
- Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives on top before serving.
Pairings:
- Serve with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables.
Suggested side dishes:
- Garlic bread or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the sauce is too thick, add more milk to thin it out.
- If the cheese is not melting, broil for a few minutes until bubbly.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure the potatoes are fully cooked before layering them in the dish.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
Food history:
- Mainzer Käse-Kartoffel-Gratin is a traditional German dish that originated in the city of Mainz.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, cheesy, and savory.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve hot as a main dish or as a side dish to a larger meal.
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Region: German