Potato Gratin

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Potato Gratin, a luscious dish based on raw potatoes, cream, and cheese. This versatile recipe allows you to use other cooked vegetables like sweet potatoes, parsnips, or winter squash, providing endless possibilities for your gratin creation. Assembling the dish is a breeze, and with the option to prepare it in advance, you can save time without compromising on taste. For even cooking, a mandoline is recommended to achieve perfectly thin potato slices.

MAKES: 4 servings

TIME: About 1 hour

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 to 3 cups cream, half-and-half, milk, or a combination
• 1 pound potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1/2 cups grated Gruyère or Swiss cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Heat the cream in a pot until it’s hot.
2. Layer the thinly sliced potatoes and grated cheese in a large gratin or ovenproof dish, making sure to end with a layer of cheese. Sprinkle each potato layer with a bit of salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Pour enough hot cream into the dish to come about three-quarters of the way up the potato layers.
4. Bake the gratin in the oven, undisturbed, until the potatoes are tender, and a thin-bladed knife can easily pierce through them, taking approximately 45 to 50 minutes. The top should be nicely browned.
5. Serve the Potato Gratin immediately or keep it warm in the oven for up to 30 minutes before serving.

VARIATIONS:

Potato Gratin with Crème Fraîche or Sour Cream:

• Substitute the cheese with crème fraîche or sour cream. Spread it between the layers using a spatula or knife, adding a rich and creamy dimension to the gratin.

Scalloped Potatoes

• Omit the cheese and increase the amount of cream to around 3 cups.
• After pouring the cream in Step 2, sprinkle 1/2 cup of fresh breadcrumbs over the top. This adds a delightful crunch to the gratin.

Baked Curried Potatoes

• Replace the cream with coconut milk for a delightful twist.
• Omit the cheese and add 1/2 small thinly sliced onion and 2 teaspoons of curry powder. The combination of flavors will create a wonderful, aromatic gratin.
• Just before baking, sprinkle shredded coconut and chopped cashews over the top, adding a delightful nutty and tropical touch to the dish.

Enjoy the luxurious flavors of Potato Gratin, an exquisite blend of raw potatoes, cream, and cheese. With the option to include various cooked vegetables and the convenience of preparing it in advance, this gratin recipe offers versatility and time-saving benefits. Whether you opt for the classic Potato Gratin, the creamy Crème Fraîche or Sour Cream variation, the crunchy Scalloped Potatoes, or the aromatic Baked Curried Potatoes, your gratin creation is sure to be a hit. Savor the rich textures and savory notes of the gratin, making it a delightful addition to any dining occasion.