Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound Old Irish Creamery Extra Mature White Cheddar, grated
- 4 large tomatoes, sliced
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Special equipment needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Whisk
- Saucepan
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Grease the baking dish with butter.
3. Layer the sliced tomatoes on the bottom of the dish.
4. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
5. Whisk in the flour until smooth.
6. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens.
7. Add the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme.
8. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the grated Old Irish Creamery Extra Mature White Cheddar until melted.
9. Pour the cheese sauce over the tomatoes in the baking dish.
10. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the top of the cheese sauce.
11. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
12. Let the gratin cool for a few minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 390
Fat: 27g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 810mg
Carbohydrates: 19g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 7g
Protein: 18g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Old Irish Creamery Extra Mature White Cheddar can be substituted with any other type of cheddar cheese.
- Tomatoes can be substituted with any other type of vegetable, such as zucchini or eggplant.
- Butter can be substituted with margarine or oil.
- All-purpose flour can be substituted with gluten-free flour.
Variations:
- Add cooked bacon or ham to the gratin for extra flavor.
- Use different types of cheese, such as Gouda or Parmesan.
- Add sliced onions or garlic to the tomato layer for extra flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a mandoline slicer to slice the tomatoes evenly.
- Use a whisk to make sure the cheese sauce is smooth.
- Let the gratin cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese sauce to set.
Storage instructions:
Store 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 on a large platter with fresh herbs sprinkled on top.
Garnishes:
Garnish with fresh parsley or basil.
Pairings:
Pair with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve with roasted vegetables or garlic bread.
Troubleshooting advice:
If the cheese sauce is too thick, add more milk. If it is too thin, add more cheese.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to cook the gratin until the cheese is bubbly and the top is golden brown to ensure it is fully cooked.
Food history:
Gratin dishes originated in French cuisine and typically consist of a vegetable or meat topped with a cheese sauce and breadcrumbs.
Flavor profiles:
Creamy, cheesy, tangy, and savory.
Serving suggestions:
Serve as a main dish or as a side dish with a meal.
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Region: Irish