Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 large tomatoes, sliced
- 1 cup Oka cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Special Equipment Needed:
- Baking dish
- Saucepan
- Whisk
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Grease a baking dish with butter.
3. Arrange the sliced tomatoes in the baking dish.
4. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
5. Add the flour and whisk until smooth.
6. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly.
7. Cook the mixture until it thickens, stirring occasionally.
8. Add the salt, black pepper, and nutmeg, and stir to combine.
9. Remove the saucepan from the heat.
10. Add the grated Oka cheese to the sauce and stir until melted.
11. Pour the cheese sauce over the sliced tomatoes.
12. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the top of the cheese sauce.
13. Bake the gratin for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the tomatoes are tender.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 375°F
Serving size:
- This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 310
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Protein: 13g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Oka cheese can be substituted with Gruyere or Swiss cheese.
- Breadcrumbs can be substituted with panko breadcrumbs or crushed crackers.
- Butter can be substituted with margarine or vegetable oil.
- All-purpose flour can be substituted with gluten-free flour or cornstarch.
- Milk can be substituted with almond milk or soy milk.
Variations:
- Add sliced onions or garlic to the tomato layer for extra flavor.
- Top the gratin with fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, before baking.
- Use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, for a different flavor.
Tips and Tricks:
- Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Make sure to whisk the cheese sauce constantly to prevent lumps.
- Let the gratin cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese sauce to set.
Storage Instructions:
- Store any leftover gratin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Place the leftover gratin in a baking dish and cover with foil.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the gratin in individual ramekins for a fancy presentation.
- Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika.
Garnishes:
- Fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley
- Paprika
Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Pair with a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Mixed green salad with a vinaigrette dressing
- Roasted asparagus or Brussels sprouts
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the cheese sauce is too thick, add more milk to thin it out.
- If the top of the gratin is browning too quickly, cover it with foil and continue baking.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to cook the gratin to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
- Store any leftovers in the refrigerator and discard after 3 days.
Food History:
- Gratin is a French dish that typically consists of a creamy sauce and a topping of breadcrumbs or cheese. It is often made with potatoes, but can also be made with other vegetables, such as tomatoes.
Flavor Profiles:
- Creamy, cheesy, and slightly tangy from the tomatoes.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the gratin as a side dish or a main course with a salad or roasted vegetables.
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