Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 2 cups of Tilsit cheese, grated
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1/2 cup of milk
- 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup of butter
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon of paprika
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Large baking dish
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a large pot of boiling water, blanch the broccoli florets for 2-3 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
3. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Slowly add the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens.
5. Add the Tilsit cheese, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
6. Add the blanched broccoli to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
7. Pour the mixture into a large baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
8. Let the Tilsit Cheese and Broccoli Bake cool for a few minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 345
Fat: 28g
Carbohydrates: 9g
Protein: 15g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Tilsit cheese can be substituted with Gouda, Cheddar, or Swiss cheese.
- Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half or whole milk.
- Broccoli can be substituted with cauliflower or asparagus.
Variations:
- Add cooked chicken or ham for a heartier meal.
- Top with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for added texture.
- Add diced onions or mushrooms for extra flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to blanch the broccoli before adding it to the cheese sauce to ensure it cooks evenly.
- Use a whisk to prevent lumps from forming in the cheese sauce.
- Let the Tilsit Cheese and Broccoli Bake cool for a few minutes before serving to prevent burns.
Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the Tilsit Cheese and Broccoli Bake in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
Garnishes:
Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for added color and flavor.
Pairings:
Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Suggested side dishes:
- Garlic bread
- Roasted potatoes
- Steamed rice
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese sauce is too thick, add more milk or cream until it reaches the desired consistency.
- If the top of the Tilsit Cheese and Broccoli Bake is not golden brown, broil for 1-2 minutes until desired color is achieved.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the broccoli until it is slightly tender to ensure it is safe to eat.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat to an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.
Food history:
Tilsit cheese is a semi-hard cheese that originated in the town of Tilsit, now known as Sovetsk, in East Prussia. It is named after the town and is made from cow's milk.
Flavor profiles:
The Tilsit Cheese and Broccoli Bake has a creamy and cheesy flavor with a slight hint of garlic and onion. The broccoli adds a fresh and slightly bitter taste to the dish.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the Tilsit Cheese and Broccoli Bake as a main dish for lunch or dinner.
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