Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 head of broccoli, chopped into small florets
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup grated Pecorino Toscana cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Special equipment needed:
- 9-inch baking dish
- Saucepan
- Whisk
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.
3. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens.
5. Add the salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Whisk until well combined.
6. Add the grated Pecorino Toscana cheese and whisk until melted and smooth.
7. Add the cooked broccoli to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
8. Pour the mixture into a 9-inch baking dish.
9. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the mixture.
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and the mixture is heated through.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 290
Fat: 16g
Carbohydrates: 19g
Protein: 17g
Sodium: 670mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Broccoli can be substituted with cauliflower or asparagus.
- Pecorino Toscana cheese can be substituted with Parmesan or Asiago cheese.
Variations:
- Add cooked bacon or ham for a meatier version.
- Add sliced mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of sweetness.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to cook the broccoli until tender but still firm to the bite.
- Use freshly grated cheese for the best flavor.
- Use a mix of breadcrumbs and grated cheese for a crunchier topping.
Storage instructions:
Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
Garnishes:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil.
Pairings:
Pair with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve with roasted potatoes or garlic bread.
Troubleshooting advice:
If the mixture is too thick, add a splash of milk to thin it out.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to cook the broccoli until tender to avoid any risk of foodborne illness.
Food history:
Pecorino Toscana cheese is a traditional Italian cheese made from sheep's milk.
Flavor profiles:
Creamy, cheesy, and slightly nutty.
Serving suggestions:
Serve as a side dish or as a main course with a side of pasta.
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Region: Italian