Gratin Parisien

Gratin Parisien, also known as Parisian Gratin, is a classic French dish that embodies the essence of French comfort food. Its roots can be traced back to the culinary practices in the Paris area, where simple yet flavorful ingredients were used to create hearty meals. This dish showcases the rich and creamy nature of French gratins, typically comprising layers of thinly sliced potatoes, creamy béchamel sauce, and a generous topping of melted Gruyere cheese. The Gratin Parisien is a staple on many French dining tables, perfect as a main dish or as an accompaniment to meats.

Ingredients

• Potatoes - 1 kg, thinly sliced
• Butter - 50 grams
• Flour - 50 grams
• Milk - 500 ml
• Gruyere cheese - 150 grams, grated
• Nutmeg - a pinch
• Salt - to taste
• Pepper - to taste
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Prepare a baking dish by greasing it lightly with some butter.
2. In a medium-sized pot, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously to form a roux, cooking it until it's golden and smooth.
3. Gradually add the milk to the roux while whisking to avoid lumps. Keep whisking until the sauce thickens. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and let the sauce simmer for a few minutes. This forms your béchamel sauce.

Assembly and Cooking

1. Layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly in the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the béchamel sauce over the potatoes.
2. Repeat the process with the remaining potatoes and béchamel sauce, making sure all potatoes are well coated.
3. Sprinkle the grated Gruyere cheese generously over the top.
4. Bake in the oven for approximately 45 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly. Use a cooking timer to ensure precise timing.
5. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Serving and Enjoyment

The Gratin Parisien is best savored warm, offering a perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness and tender potatoes. It pairs excellently with a side of fresh salad or as a comforting accompaniment to roasted meats such as beef or chicken. To elevate the experience, a glass of full-bodied red wine complements the rich flavors beautifully, creating an unforgettable dining experience reminiscent of Parisian gourmet meals.