Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 loaf of French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 pound of Smithfield ham, diced
- 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups of whole milk
- 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
Special equipment needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Aluminum foil
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the bread cubes, diced Smithfield ham, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped fresh parsley to the mixing bowl. Mix well.
4. Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
5. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
6. Remove the aluminum foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
7. Let the strata cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Temperature:
350°F
Serving size:
8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 428
Fat per serving: 22g
Carbohydrates per serving: 27g
Protein per serving: 28g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of Smithfield ham, you can use any cooked ham.
- Instead of cheddar cheese, you can use any type of shredded cheese.
Variations:
- Add diced bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for extra flavor.
- Use different types of bread, such as sourdough or whole wheat.
- Add a layer of spinach or kale for extra nutrition.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to use day-old bread for the best texture.
- You can prepare the strata the night before and refrigerate it overnight. Just bake it in the morning for an easy breakfast.
- Use a serrated knife to cut the bread into cubes.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover strata in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat the strata, place it in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the strata on a platter with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley on top.
Garnishes:
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives.
Pairings:
- Serve with a side of fresh fruit or a green salad.
Suggested side dishes:
- Fresh fruit
- Green salad
- Roasted vegetables
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the strata is too dry, add a little more milk to the mixture before baking.
- If the strata is too wet, add a little more bread to the mixture before baking.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the strata to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
Food history:
- Strata is a popular breakfast casserole that originated in the United States.
Flavor profiles:
- The Smithfield ham adds a salty and savory flavor to the strata, while the cheddar cheese adds a creamy and tangy flavor.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the strata for breakfast or brunch.
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Taste: Savory, Rich, Cheesy, Hammy, Comforting