Westphalian Ham and Potato Casserole Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 lb Westphalian ham, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Gruyere cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste

Special equipment needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Mandoline slicer (optional)

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.

2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.

3. Add the diced ham and cook until lightly browned.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and chicken broth.

5. Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the baking dish.

6. Pour half of the cream mixture over the potatoes.

7. Sprinkle half of the ham mixture over the cream.

8. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, cream, and ham.

9. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.

10. Remove the foil and sprinkle the grated Gruyere cheese over the top of the casserole.

11. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

12. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.


Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories: 460
Fat: 27g
Carbohydrates: 31g
Protein: 23g
Sodium: 840mg

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Westphalian ham can be substituted with any smoked ham or bacon.
- Gruyere cheese can be substituted with Swiss or cheddar cheese.

Variations:
- Add sliced mushrooms to the onion and garlic mixture.
- Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a twist on the classic recipe.
- Add a layer of thinly sliced apples for a sweet and savory flavor combination.

Tips and tricks:
- Use a mandoline slicer to ensure even potato slices.
- Let the casserole rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

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 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
Serve the casserole in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.

Garnishes:
Chopped fresh parsley or chives.

Pairings:
A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables.

Suggested side dishes:
Garlic bread or dinner rolls.

Troubleshooting advice:
If the casserole is too dry, add more chicken broth or cream.

Food safety advice:
Make sure the ham is fully cooked before adding it to the casserole.

Food history:
Westphalian ham is a type of cured ham that originated in the Westphalia region of Germany.

Flavor profiles:
Savory, smoky, and creamy.

Serving suggestions:
Serve as a main dish for dinner or as a hearty brunch option.

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Region: German

Taste: Savory, Rich, Hearty, Comforting, Smoky