Introduction
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the creamy, cheesy goodness of a gratin. And while potatoes are the traditional star of this dish, why not shake things up a bit and try a celeriac and blue cheese gratin? This unique twist on a classic recipe brings together the earthy flavors of celeriac with the tangy richness of blue cheese, resulting in a dish that is both comforting and sophisticated. In this article, we will explore the ingredients, steps, and tips to create a celeriac and blue cheese gratin that will impress your taste buds and leave you craving for more.
Ingredients
To make a mouthwatering celeriac and blue cheese gratin, you will need the following ingredients:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter | 25g |
| Banana shallots | 2 |
| Thyme sprigs | 3 |
| Garlic clove | 1 |
| Double cream | 250ml |
| Whole milk | 250ml |
| Celeriac | 1 large |
| Blue cheese | 175g |
Method
Preheat your oven to 180C/160C fan/gas 4. Butter a round ovenproof gratin dish, approximately 19cm in diameter.
In a saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the finely sliced banana shallots and cook them for about 5 minutes, until they become soft and translucent.
Add the thyme leaves and finely grated garlic to the saucepan. Stir well to combine.
Pour in the double cream and whole milk, followed by the celeriac slices. Stir gently to ensure that all the ingredients are well mixed.
Increase the heat to medium-low and cook the mixture for about 15 minutes, or until the celeriac begins to soften.
Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a gentle mix to distribute the seasoning evenly.
Carefully spoon half of the celeriac mixture into the prepared gratin dish. Crumble half of the blue cheese over the top.
Add the remaining celeriac mixture to the dish and finish by sprinkling the remaining blue cheese on top.
Place the gratin dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the gratin is golden and the celeriac is cooked through.
Once the gratin is cooked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. The dish can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish alongside a main course.
Tips for Success
To ensure that your celeriac and blue cheese gratin turns out perfectly every time, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Choosing the Right Celeriac: Look for celeriac that is firm and free from blemishes. The size of the celeriac should be large enough to yield the required amount of slices for the gratin.
Slicing the Celeriac: To achieve even slices, it's best to use a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer. Aim for slices that are approximately ½cm thick.
Selecting the Blue Cheese: Opt for a blue cheese that has a creamy texture and a strong flavor. Gorgonzola or Stilton are excellent choices that pair well with the celeriac.
Layering the Ingredients: When layering the celeriac and blue cheese in the gratin dish, ensure that the ingredients are evenly distributed to create a harmonious blend of flavors.
Golden and Bubbly: The gratin is ready when the top is golden and bubbling, and the celeriac is tender. Keep an eye on the dish while it's in the oven to avoid overcooking.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
While the celeriac and blue cheese gratin is delicious on its own, there are a few variations and serving suggestions that you can explore to enhance the dish even further:
Add Some Crunch: Sprinkle some breadcrumbs or crushed nuts over the top of the gratin before baking. This will add a delightful crunch to every bite.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs to infuse the cream and milk mixture. Fresh rosemary, sage, or parsley can add an aromatic twist to the dish.
Accompaniments: Serve the gratin alongside a refreshing salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. It also pairs well with grilled meats or roasted chicken.
Extra Cheese: For the cheese lovers out there, sprinkle some extra grated cheese on top of the gratin before baking. This will create a cheesy crust that is irresistible.
Conclusion
The celeriac and blue cheese gratin is a delightful twist on a classic dish that is sure to impress your taste buds. With its creamy texture, earthy flavors, and tangy richness, this gratin is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. By following the simple steps and tips outlined in this article, you'll be able to create a gratin that is both visually stunning and incredibly delicious. So, why not give this recipe a try and elevate your gratin game to a whole new level?