Gratin of Artichoke Hearts and Acorn Squash

Gratin of Artichoke Hearts and Acorn Squash Recipe from France

Region / culture: France | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Gratin of Artichoke Hearts and Acorn Squash is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the earthy flavors of artichokes and the sweet, nutty taste of acorn squash. This creamy and cheesy gratin is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion.

History

Gratin dishes have been around for centuries, with the term "gratin" originating from the French word "gratter," which means "to scrape" or "to grate." The dish typically consists of a creamy sauce, vegetables, and cheese, baked until golden and bubbly. This particular recipe combines the flavors of artichokes and acorn squash to create a unique and flavorful dish.

Ingredients

4 large globe artichokes, weighing 8 to 10 oz (283 g) each
1 small acorn squash, weighing about 1 lb (454 g)
4 tbsp unsalted butter
4 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
pinch of nutmeg
salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
0.5 cup (2 oz (57 g)) grated gruyère cheese

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Remove the stems and all outer leaves from the artichokes.
Pull out the cone of tender inner leaves, and use a small spoon to scrape away the prickly choke from the center.
Trim away any dark green bits from the bottoms.
Put the trimmed artichokes into acidulated water.
Cut the squash in half, and remove the seeds.
Use a sharp knife to remove the peel, and set the squash aside.
Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium-high heat.
Whisk in the flour, and cook until it turns lemon-colored and bubbly, for about 1 minute.
Pour in the milk, increase the heat to high, and bring it to a boil, stirring constantly until smooth and thickened, for about 5 minutes.
Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook, stirring often, for about 10 minutes.
Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
Spread half of the sauce over the bottom of a medium-sized baking dish.
Cut the artichoke bottoms and squash into 0.25 inch-thick slices.
Arrange them, alternating, on top of the sauce.
Pour the remaining sauce over the top, and spread it out evenly with the back of a knife.
Sprinkle the cheese over the top.
Bake until the vegetables are softened and the top is golden brown, for about 45 minutes.
Remove from the oven, and serve.

Variations

Add cooked bacon or pancetta for a smoky flavor.
Substitute different types of cheese, such as Gruyere or Parmesan, for a different taste.
Add breadcrumbs to the cheese topping for extra crunch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to trim the artichokes properly to remove any tough or prickly parts before cooking.

- When making the sauce, be sure to whisk constantly to prevent lumps from forming.

- To add extra flavor, consider adding herbs such as thyme or rosemary to the sauce.

- For a crispy topping, broil the gratin for a few minutes after baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Gratin of Artichoke Hearts and Acorn Squash as a side dish with roasted chicken or grilled fish. It also pairs well with a simple green salad.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to properly trim and prepare the artichokes and squash before cooking.

- Make sure to cook the sauce until thickened to ensure a creamy texture.

- Arrange the vegetables in a single layer in the baking dish for even cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use frozen artichoke hearts and butternut squash if fresh ingredients are not available.

- Substitute almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free version of the sauce.

- Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version of the dish.

Make Ahead Tips

The gratin can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake. Simply cover with foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Gratin of Artichoke Hearts and Acorn Squash in individual ramekins for an elegant presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or chives.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a crisp white wine such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. For a non-alcoholic option, serve with sparkling water with a splash of lemon.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Gratin of Artichoke Hearts and Acorn Squash contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Gratin of Artichoke Hearts and Acorn Squash contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Gratin of Artichoke Hearts and Acorn Squash contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Gratin of Artichoke Hearts and Acorn Squash contains approximately 10 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, potassium, and magnesium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (butter, milk, cheese) and wheat (flour), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Gratin of Artichoke Hearts and Acorn Squash is a nutritious dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Gratin of Artichoke Hearts and Acorn Squash is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the flavors of artichokes and acorn squash with a creamy sauce and cheesy topping. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, eager to learn the art of cooking from my own grandmother. She was a wonderful cook, always experimenting with new ingredients and flavors to create delicious dishes that would bring our family together around the dinner table.

One day, as I was helping my grandmother in the kitchen, she pulled out a tattered old cookbook from the shelf. It was filled with handwritten notes and scribbles in the margins, a testament to the many years of cooking experience that had gone into its pages. As she flipped through the book, she came across a recipe for Gratin of Artichoke Hearts and Acorn Squash.

I had never heard of such a dish before, and I was intrigued by the combination of flavors and textures that it promised. My grandmother explained that she had learned the recipe from a dear friend many years ago, and that it had become a family favorite ever since. She offered to teach me how to make it, and I eagerly agreed.

We started by preparing the artichoke hearts and acorn squash, peeling and slicing them with care. The artichoke hearts were tender and flavorful, while the acorn squash added a touch of sweetness to the dish. We then layered the vegetables in a baking dish, sprinkling them with a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and herbs.

As the gratin baked in the oven, the kitchen filled with the mouthwatering aroma of roasted vegetables and melted cheese. I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish, and when it was finally ready, I took a bite and was immediately transported to a world of rich, savory flavors that danced on my taste buds.

From that day on, Gratin of Artichoke Hearts and Acorn Squash became a staple in our family's kitchen. Whenever we wanted to celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy a delicious meal together, we would turn to this recipe for comfort and nourishment. It became a symbol of our shared love for good food and good company, a recipe that brought us together in joy and laughter.

Over the years, I have made this dish countless times, adapting and perfecting the recipe to suit my own tastes and preferences. I have shared it with friends and loved ones, passing down the tradition of cooking and eating good food with those I hold dear.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the many memories and experiences that have shaped me as a cook and a person, I am grateful for the gift of this recipe and the lessons it has taught me. It has shown me the power of food to bring people together, to nourish and sustain us in body and spirit.

And so, I will continue to cherish the memory of discovering Gratin of Artichoke Hearts and Acorn Squash for the first time, and I will carry it with me always as a reminder of the joy and connection that cooking can bring to our lives. For in the kitchen, surrounded by the warmth and love of family and friends, we find not just sustenance, but also friendship, laughter, and the simple pleasures of a shared meal.