Potatoes "au Gratin." Jenny E. Wallace. Recipe

Potatoes "au Gratin" is a classic and delicious dish that combines the simplicity of potatoes with a creamy, cheesy sauce. This recipe has been enjoyed for many years and is a favorite in many households. In this article, we will explore the history of Potatoes "au Gratin," provide a detailed recipe, and discuss some fun facts about this popular dish. Additionally, we will also suggest some similar recipe options for you to try. Let's get started!

History of Potatoes "au Gratin":
Potatoes "au Gratin" originated in France and the term "au Gratin" translates to "with gratin" or "with a crust." The dish typically consists of sliced or diced potatoes that are cooked in a creamy sauce, topped with cheese, and baked until golden brown. This dish gained popularity in the 19th century and has since become a staple in French cuisine. Potatoes "au Gratin" are now enjoyed worldwide and have many variations that incorporate different cheeses, herbs, and spices.

Now, let's move on to the recipe for Potatoes "au Gratin":

Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 tablespoon flour
- 2 cups milk
- Cold boiled potatoes (quantity depends on personal preference)
- Grated cheese (enough to cover the dish)
- Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and stir until well combined. Cook this mixture, known as a roux, for about 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.

3. Gradually add the milk to the saucepan, stirring constantly to avoid lumps from forming. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens. This should take around 5 minutes. Season the sauce with salt and pepper according to your taste.

4. Chop the cold boiled potatoes into bite-sized pieces and place them in a greased baking dish.

5. Pour the creamy sauce over the potatoes, making sure every piece is coated.

6. Sprinkle the grated cheese evenly over the top of the dish, covering the potatoes and sauce.

7. Place the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes or until the cheese has melted and turned golden brown.

8. Once done, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the sauce to thicken slightly.

9. Serve the Potatoes "au Gratin" as a delicious side dish alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or enjoy it as a main course with a side salad.

Fun Facts about Potatoes "au Gratin":
- Potatoes "au Gratin" is often mistaken for Potatoes Dauphinoise, which is a similar dish but without the cheese topping.
- While the classic topping for Potatoes "au Gratin" is typically grated cheese, you can experiment with different types of cheese such as cheddar, gruyere, or even blue cheese to add different flavors.

Similar Recipe Options:
If you enjoyed Potatoes "au Gratin" and want to try similar dishes, here are a few options for you:

- Scalloped Potatoes: Similar to Potatoes "au Gratin," scalloped potatoes are thinly sliced and baked in a creamy sauce, but without the cheese topping.
- Pommes Anna: This French dish consists of thinly sliced potatoes that are layered into a cake shape and baked until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
- Hasselback Potatoes: In this recipe, the potatoes are thinly sliced but left intact at the bottom and baked until crispy and golden.

Potatoes "au Gratin" is a timeless dish that never fails to impress. Whether you're serving it for a family dinner or at a special occasion, this creamy and cheesy recipe is sure to delight everyone's taste buds. So, give it a try and see how this classic comfort food can elevate any meal!