Brussels sprouts gratin

Brussels Sprouts Gratin – a delicious and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

When we think of Brussels sprouts, images of sophisticated dishes come to mind, but in reality, this humble vegetable can take center stage at the table. With a crunchy texture and a slightly sweet taste, Brussels sprouts are a perfect choice for a flavorful lunch or dinner. In this recipe, we will explore how to achieve a creamy gratin with a crunchy topping that will delight everyone's taste buds.

A brief history of Brussels sprouts

Although Brussels sprouts are often associated with festive meals, their origins are much simpler. This small vegetable was first cultivated in Europe, and its popularity has grown among those who appreciate both its taste and nutritional benefits. Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, Brussels sprouts are not only a delicious choice but also a healthy one.

Necessary ingredients

- 400 g frozen Brussels sprouts
- 2 large eggs
- 200 g grated cheese (choose a quality cheese for a more intense flavor)
- 100 g sour cream (opt for full-fat sour cream for added creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon of butter (for extra flavor)
- 2 tablespoons of starch (or flour, depending on preference)
- 100 ml milk (whole milk provides a richer texture)
- breadcrumbs (for a crunchy topping)
- salt, pepper, and oregano (for seasoning)
- a bit of puff pastry (optional, for an elegant appearance)
- sesame seeds (for added crunch)

Step by step – Preparation guide

1. Preparing the Brussels sprouts
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. When the water is boiling, add the frozen Brussels sprouts and let them blanch for about 10 minutes. This step is essential as it helps soften the sprouts and reduces baking time. After boiling, drain the sprouts in a colander and let them cool slightly.

2. Preparing the creamy sauce
In a saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once it has completely melted, add the starch and mix well with a spatula, allowing it to form a paste. Slowly pour in the milk and sour cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook until the sauce becomes thick and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano to taste.

3. The egg and cheese mixture
In a separate bowl, beat the two eggs with a whisk. Add the grated cheese and mix well, ensuring each strand of cheese is coated with the eggs. This will provide a rich consistency and intense flavor.

4. Assembling the gratin
Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Grease a baking dish with a little butter or margarine. Arrange the Brussels sprouts in the prepared dish, then pour the creamy sauce over them. Add the egg and cheese mixture evenly on top.

5. The crunchy topping
Generously sprinkle breadcrumbs on top to achieve a golden and crunchy crust. If desired, you can cut strips of puff pastry and artistically place them on top, adding an elegant touch to the dish. Finally, sprinkle sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.

6. Baking the gratin
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the crust becomes golden and crunchy. The flavors will meld, and the entire house will be filled with a delicious aroma.

7. Cooling and serving
After removing the gratin from the oven, let it cool slightly before serving. It can be enjoyed warm or cold, making it an excellent choice for holiday meals or a picnic.

Useful tips

- Ingredient variations: You can also add other vegetables, such as carrots or cauliflower, to diversify the dish. Additionally, experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or parmesan, to achieve different flavors.

- Serving: This gratin pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or grilled meat, such as chicken or fish. You can accompany it with a dry white wine, which will perfectly complement the flavors.

Calories and nutritional benefits

This Brussels sprouts gratin offers a rich mix of nutrients. Each serving contains approximately 350 calories, depending on the ingredients used. Brussels sprouts are rich in vitamins K and C, fiber, and antioxidants, making them an excellent choice for a healthy diet.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use fresh Brussels sprouts instead of frozen?
Absolutely! If you have fresh Brussels sprouts, you can blanch them in the same way and continue with the recipe.

2. How can I make this gratin more filling?
Add ground meat, such as chicken or turkey, to the mixture of sprouts and sauce for a heartier dish.

3. Can the gratin be frozen?
Yes, it is an excellent option for meal prep. Make sure to cool it completely before freezing, and then you can bake it directly from the freezer.

This Brussels sprouts gratin recipe is not only easy to make but also brings a burst of flavor to every meal. I invite you to try it and enjoy a delicious combination of flavors, textures, and colors!

 Ingredients: 400 g frozen Brussels sprouts, 2 eggs, 200 grams grated cheese, 100 grams sour cream, 1 tablespoon butter, 2 tablespoons starch or flour (I used starch), 100 ml milk, breadcrumbs, pepper, salt, oregano, a bit of puff pastry, sesame.

 Tags:  brussels sprouts cheese