Gratin Savoyard

Background of Gratin Savoyard

Gratin Savoyard is a delectable French dish rooted in the heart of the Savoy region. Known for its scenic alpine landscapes and rich culinary traditions, Savoy has contributed numerous gastronomic delights to French cuisine. This particular gratin is a heartwarming potato dish sans cream, distinguishing it from the famous Gratin Dauphinois. Instead, Gratin Savoyard is traditionally made with broth and cheese, offering a lighter yet flavorful alternative.

Ingredients

• Potatoes - 1 kilogram, preferably waxy varieties like Charlotte or Yukon Gold
• Chicken broth - 500 milliliters
• Garlic - 2 cloves, finely minced
• Butter - 2 tablespoons
• Gruyère Cheese - 150 grams, grated
• Nutmeg - a pinch
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste

Preparation Steps

Follow these steps to prepare the delicious Gratin Savoyard.

1. Preparing the Ingredients

1. Peeled and thinly slice the potatoes. They should be around 2-3 mm thick to ensure even cooking.
2. Finely mince the garlic cloves.
3. Grate the Gruyère cheese finely for an even melt.

2. Layering the Gratin

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Grease a baking dish with butter to prevent sticking.
3. Layer one-third of the potatoes across the bottom of the dish.
4. Sprinkle a portion of the garlic over the potatoes, followed by some nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
5. Sprinkle a layer of grated cheese over the potatoes.
6. Repeat the layering process with the remaining potatoes, ensuring each layer is well-seasoned and covered with cheese.
7. Finish the top layer with the rest of the cheese.

3. Cooking the Gratin

1. Slightly warm the chicken broth in a small saucepan.
2. Pour the warm broth gently over the assembled layers, allowing it to seep through to the bottom.
3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Reference the cooking timer to keep track.
5. Remove the foil after 45 minutes to allow the top layer of cheese to crisp and turn golden brown.
6. Continue baking uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is bubbly and golden.

Serving Suggestions

Gratin Savoyard pairs beautifully with roasted meats or as a standalone vegetarian dish complemented by a fresh salad. Serve it directly from the baking dish, ensuring each serving has a good mix of crispy top cheese and soft, flavorful potatoes. Enjoy your gratin with a glass of white wine for a complete Savoyard experience.

Conclusion

Whether you're a fan of potato dishes or someone exploring the culinary diversity of French cuisine, Gratin Savoyard offers a delightful taste of the Savoy region. Its simple ingredients and rich flavors make it a comforting meal option, perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners. Now that you've mastered this recipe, why not add it to your list of go-to dishes?