Gratin Dauphinois Recipe: A Classic French Dish

Introduction

Gratin Dauphinois is a classic French dish made with thinly sliced potatoes and cream, baked to perfection with a golden cheese crust. It’s a simple but delicious comfort food that’s perfect for colder evenings, holidays, or any special occasion. The dish originated in the Dauphiné region of France and has been a staple in French cuisine for centuries.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Gratin Dauphinois for 4 people:

• 1 kg potatoes
• 3 cups heavy cream
• 3 garlic cloves
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup grated Gruyere cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Peel and slice the potatoes into thin rounds. Rinse and pat dry.
3. In a large saucepan, heat the cream over medium heat. Add the garlic, salt, and pepper, and stir to combine.
4. Add the potatoes to the cream mixture and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Using a slotted spoon, transfer half of the potato slices to a 9x13 inch baking dish. Pour half of the cream mixture over the potatoes.
6. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and cream mixture. Sprinkle the grated cheese over the top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden brown.
8. Let the gratin cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Vegetarian/Vegan Option

Gratin Dauphinois is traditionally made with heavy cream and cheese, but you can easily make a vegan or vegetarian version by substituting these ingredients. For a vegan version, use coconut cream or non-dairy milk instead of heavy cream, and nutritional yeast or vegan cheese for the topping. For a vegetarian version, you can use regular cream and cheese, or try using a combination of cheese and breadcrumbs for a crispy topping.

Gluten-Free Option

Gratin Dauphinois is naturally gluten-free, but be sure to check that your cheese is also gluten-free if you have gluten sensitivities.

Conclusion

Gratin Dauphinois is a classic French dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture, cheesy topping, and garlic flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Give this recipe a try and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills!

FAQ

What is Gratin Dauphinois?

Gratin Dauphinois is a French dish made with thinly sliced potatoes, cream, milk, garlic, and cheese. It is typically baked in the oven until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender.

What type of potatoes should I use for Gratin Dauphinois?

You should use starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold for Gratin Dauphinois. They will hold their shape better and not become too mushy during the cooking process.

Do I need to peel the potatoes?

Yes, you should peel the potatoes before slicing them for Gratin Dauphinois. This will help the dish to have a smoother texture and prevent any tough or chewy bits.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use a different type of cheese for Gratin Dauphinois. Gruyere, Parmesan, or Cheddar would all work well. Just make sure to use a cheese that melts well and has a good flavor.

Can I make Gratin Dauphinois ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Gratin Dauphinois ahead of time. Just assemble the dish up to the point of baking, cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove from the refrigerator and let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking as directed.

Can I freeze Gratin Dauphinois?

Gratin Dauphinois can be frozen, but the texture may change slightly. To freeze, assemble the dish up to the point of baking, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

Can I add other ingredients to Gratin Dauphinois?

Yes, you can add other ingredients to Gratin Dauphinois, such as bacon, ham, or caramelized onions. Just make sure to cook any additional ingredients before adding them to the dish.

How long does Gratin Dauphinois take to bake?

Gratin Dauphinois typically takes 1-1.5 hours to bake at 375°F (190°C). The top should be golden brown and the potatoes should be tender when pierced with a knife.

How do I know when Gratin Dauphinois is done?

You will know when Gratin Dauphinois is done when the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a knife. Let the dish rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Can I reheat Gratin Dauphinois?

Yes, you can reheat Gratin Dauphinois. Cover with foil and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.