Plantain au Gratin

Plantain au Gratin Recipe from Switzerland

Region / culture: Switzerland | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Plantain au Gratin is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the sweetness of ripe plantains with the creaminess of a white sauce and the richness of Swiss cheese. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion.

History

Plantain au Gratin is a traditional dish from the Caribbean region, where plantains are a staple ingredient in many recipes. The dish has evolved over time to include different variations and ingredients, but the basic concept of layering plantains with a creamy sauce and cheese remains the same.

Ingredients

4 ripe plantains
4 tbsp of oil
a small amount of white sauce
1 oz (28 g) of butter
2 tsp of flour
a large glass of milk
salt
pepper
3 oz (85 g) of grated swiss cheese

How to prepare

Peel the plantains and cut them lengthwise into slices.
In a frying pan, fry the plantain slices in small batches with oil.
Prepare the white sauce by mixing the butter and flour well, then adding the milk, salt, and pepper.
In a "gratin" dish, layer the plantain slices and white sauce, finishing with a layer of white sauce.
Sprinkle grated Swiss cheese on top.

Variations

Add cooked bacon or ham to the layers for a smoky flavor.
Use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, for a unique twist.
Top the dish with breadcrumbs or crushed nuts for added crunch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use ripe plantains for this recipe, as they will be sweeter and softer than green plantains.

- Fry the plantain slices in small batches to ensure they cook evenly and don't stick together.

- Be generous with the Swiss cheese on top, as it will create a deliciously gooey and golden crust when baked.

Serving Suggestions

Plantain au Gratin can be served as a main dish with a side salad or steamed vegetables. It pairs well with a glass of white wine or a fruity cocktail.

Cooking Techniques

Use a mandoline slicer to get evenly thin slices of plantains.

- Make sure to cook the white sauce on low heat to prevent it from curdling.

- Broil the dish for a few minutes at the end to get a crispy and golden top.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version.

- Substitute almond flour for regular flour for a gluten-free option.

- Use plant-based milk and cheese for a vegan version of the dish.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the white sauce and fry the plantains ahead of time and assemble the dish just before baking.

- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Plantain au Gratin in individual ramekins for a fancy presentation. - Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Plantain au Gratin with a crisp green salad and a glass of Sauvignon Blanc for a light and refreshing meal.

- Serve with a side of black beans and rice for a complete and satisfying dinner.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Plantain au Gratin contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Plantains are a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy for the body. Each serving of Plantain au Gratin contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The butter, oil, and cheese in this recipe contribute to the fat content. Each serving of Plantain au Gratin contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

While plantains do not contain a significant amount of protein, the Swiss cheese in this recipe adds some protein to the dish. Each serving of Plantain au Gratin contains approximately 8 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Plantains are a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as potassium and fiber. This dish also provides calcium and vitamin D from the cheese and milk in the white sauce.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (butter, milk, cheese) and gluten (flour), so it may not be suitable for those with dairy or gluten allergies.

Summary

Plantain au Gratin is a delicious and satisfying dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a great option for a hearty and flavorful meal.

Summary

Plantain au Gratin is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the sweetness of ripe plantains with a creamy white sauce and gooey Swiss cheese. This dish is easy to make and perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always stay with me. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy little home in the countryside. Maria was an incredible cook, and I always looked forward to our cooking sessions together. On that particular day, she surprised me with a new recipe she had learned from her grandmother - Plantain au Gratin.

As soon as she mentioned the dish, my interest was piqued. I had never heard of Plantain au Gratin before, but I was eager to learn more. Maria explained that it was a traditional Haitian dish that combined the sweetness of ripe plantains with the savory flavors of cheese and spices. My mouth watered just thinking about it.

Maria generously shared her grandmother's recipe with me, and we set to work in her kitchen. The first step was to peel and slice the ripe plantains, which Maria taught me how to do with precision and care. The plantains were then lightly fried in a skillet until they were golden brown and caramelized, filling the kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma.

Next, we prepared the cheese sauce that would be poured over the plantains. Maria showed me how to make a roux with butter and flour, then slowly whisk in milk until it thickened into a creamy sauce. We added a blend of spices - garlic, paprika, and cayenne pepper - to give the sauce a kick of flavor.

With the plantains and cheese sauce ready, we began layering them in a baking dish, alternating between the two until the dish was filled to the brim. Maria topped it off with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs and a generous handful of grated cheese before popping it in the oven to bake.

As we waited for the Plantain au Gratin to cook, Maria regaled me with stories of her grandmother and the culinary traditions she had passed down through the generations. I listened intently, soaking up every detail like a sponge. I could feel the love and history infused in every step of the recipe we were creating together.

When the dish emerged from the oven, golden and bubbly, we couldn't wait to dig in. The first bite was pure bliss - the sweet and tender plantains melded perfectly with the creamy cheese sauce, creating a harmony of flavors that danced on my taste buds. I knew then and there that this recipe would become a treasured favorite in my own collection.

Since that memorable day with Maria, I have made Plantain au Gratin countless times for my family and friends. Each time, I am transported back to that sunny kitchen in the countryside, where I learned not just a recipe, but a piece of culinary history and tradition. I am forever grateful to Maria and her grandmother for sharing this delicious dish with me, and I will continue to pass it down to future generations with love and pride.