| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 30 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 420 | 28g | 16g | 16g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 6g | 2g | 26g | 2.1g |
How often do you come across a dish that perfectly marries comfort with sophistication? That’s what I found when I first prepared Chicory and Ham Gratin. Growing up in Nebraska, I’m no stranger to hearty, down-to-earth dishes that make you feel at home. Chicory, often known as endives, is a vegetable I didn’t encounter frequently until I began to explore recipes outside the typical Midwestern fare. But let me tell you, this might just become one of your favorite go-to comfort foods.
A Step Beyond Traditional Comfort Food
The combination of Chicory and Ham Gratin brings an elevated nuance to what could be considered classic comfort food. The bitterness of the chicory balances beautifully with the saltiness of the ham, and when you add the velvety richness of Gruyère cheese, you know you’re in for a treat. The addition of Dijon mustard and ground nutmeg adds subtle layers of flavor that make every bite exciting.
Health Benefits Worth Noting
While this dish may seem indulgent, it’s worth mentioning some of the health benefits it offers. Chicory is rich in fiber and can aid in digestion, making it a great addition to your diet. Moreover, Gruyère cheese is an excellent source of calcium, essential for maintaining strong bones. If you’re looking to make this a bit lighter, you could opt for a lower-fat milk or cheese alternative without sacrificing too much of the creamy texture.
Pairing this dish with a light salad or roasted vegetables can balance out the richness and make for a well-rounded meal. It’s somewhat similar to a traditional potato gratin, but the chicory adds a unique twist that sets it apart. For those who enjoy experimenting, you might find that this Chicory Gratin recipe also works incredibly well as a side dish for roasted meats, especially poultry, bringing out the best in both.
Taking just a little time to prepare and layer the components of Chicory and Ham Gratin ensures that you end up with a dish that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing. Top it off with fresh bread crumbs for a delightful crunch and a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. It’s a recipe that promises to be a real crowd-pleaser, whether you’re serving it as a main course for the family or a special dish for guests.
What You’ll Need
- 6 heads of chicory (endives), trimmed and halved lengthwise
- 12 slices of ham
- 3 cups of grated Gruyère cheese
- 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- 2 cups of whole milk
- 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup of fresh bread crumbs
- 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the chicory (endives) and cook for about 5 minutes, or until just tender. Drain and set aside.
Step Two
In a medium saucepan, melt the 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir in the 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to form a roux. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid browning.
Step Three
Gradually whisk in the 2 cups of whole milk. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, ground nutmeg, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove the sauce from heat.
Step Four
Wrap each halved chicory with a slice of ham. Arrange the wrapped chicory in a baking dish.
Step Five
Pour the prepared béchamel sauce evenly over the ham-wrapped chicory. Sprinkle the grated Gruyère cheese evenly over the top of the dish.
Step Six
In a small bowl, combine the bread crumbs with a pinch of salt and pepper. Sprinkle the seasoned bread crumbs evenly over the top of the cheese layer.
Step Seven
Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Step Eight
Remove from the oven and let the gratin cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, before serving. Enjoy your Chicory and Ham Gratin!
