Bean and Potato Gratin

Bean and Potato Gratin is a comforting and flavorful dish inspired by the French classic boulangerie potatoes. In this recipe, creamy white beans are layered with thinly sliced potatoes and baked to perfection, creating a satisfying and hearty dish. The combination of tender beans, meltingly soft potatoes, and aromatic thyme makes this gratin a delicious side dish or a satisfying main course. With minimal hands-on time, this recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion.

MAKES: 4 servings

TIME: 11/2 hours with cooked beans, largely unattended

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
• 3 cups cooked or canned white beans, drained but still moist
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 3 medium starchy or all-purpose potatoes, peeled
• 1 cup chicken, beef, or vegetable stock or water
• 3 tablespoons butter

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Stir a tablespoon of fresh thyme leaves into the cooked white beans. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
2. Spread the seasoned white beans evenly in the bottom of a large baking dish, creating a single layer.
3. Slice the peeled potatoes into thin half-circles. Arrange the potato slices in overlapping rows to cover the beans.
4. Pour the chicken, beef, or vegetable stock over the beans and potatoes. Dot the top with small pieces of butter and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and the remaining thyme leaves.
5. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
6. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 45 minutes or until the top is browned and glazed.
7. Serve the Bean and Potato Gratin immediately for a comforting hot dish or let it rest for up to an hour and serve at room temperature.

VARIATIONS:

• Creamy Bean and Potato Gratin: For a richer version, add 1/2 cup of cream to the beans before spreading them in the baking dish.
• Bean, Potato, and Leek Gratin: Cook 2 cups of chopped leek in butter until soft and almost melting. Spread the leeks over the beans and then layer the potatoes on top.

USES:

• Serve the Bean and Potato Gratin as a delicious and satisfying side dish alongside roasted meats, grilled chicken, or seared fish.
• Enjoy it as a vegetarian main course with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner option.

Bean and Potato Gratin is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines the creaminess of white beans, the delicate texture of thinly sliced potatoes, and the aromatic flavor of fresh thyme. This gratin can be enjoyed as a side dish or a vegetarian main course, making it a versatile addition to your recipe repertoire. Whether served hot or at room temperature, this dish is sure to impress with its rich flavors and comforting appeal. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, Bean and Potato Gratin is a delicious way to elevate simple ingredients into a memorable and satisfying meal.