| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 45 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 520 | 35g | 18g | 38g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 8g | 3g | 15g | 0.85g |
There’s something uniquely magical about a good old hearty vegetable recipe, and much like the Midwestern spirit I grew up with in Nebraska, the Creamy Lamb’s Quarters Gratin, is a testament to that. This dish takes farm-fresh ingredients and turns them into a vibrant, aromatic, and soothing gratin that’s nothing short of heavenly and bursting with health benefits. The highlight being lamb’s quarters, a leafy green vegetable, also known as wild spinach, that’s a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals. This recipe is sure to take you on a delicious journey while perhaps reminding you of your own comfort food memories.
Nature’s Bounty meets Homestyle Comfort
The Creamy Lamb’s Quarters Gratin is a classic nod to vegetables playing the, often unheralded, hero in our meals. This recipe brings back memories of walking through Nebraska’s vast farmlands, where fresh vegetables were just a sweet saunter away. Just as the Midwestern heartland is known to marry farm-fresh and comfort food, this recipe does the same: it gives a spectacular twist to the often sidelined greens while ensuring every bite is bursting with comfort and homely familiarity.
Health Benefits and Flavorful Pairs
What I absolutely love about this gratin, besides its creamy, cheesy indulgence, is the nutrient-packed lamb’s quarters. According to Healthline , these under-appreciated greens are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium, potassium and magnesium. Not just that, with the inclusion of onions and garlic, this dish emerges a star in keeping your heart healthy and immune system strong.
If you’re wondering what this lovely gratin pairs well with, consider serving it with a classic roast chicken, or maybe, a juicy stake. The rich and savory flavors of the meats complement the creamy freshness of the gratin splendidly. If you’re after a Midwestern food experience, try serving it alongside cornbread or a simple farm salad. This gratin truly is as versatile as it is delicious.
Vitamin-filled vegetables, rich ingredients, and the homely essence of Midwestern cooking – this Creamy Lamb’s Quarters Gratin is indeed nothing short of deliciously enchanting!
What You’ll Need
- 2 bunches of lamb’s quarters
- 2 tbsp of unsalted butter
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
- 2 cups of heavy cream
- 2 cups of full-fat milk
- 1 tsp of fresh nutmeg, grated
- 1/2 tsp of salt
- 1/2 tsp of black pepper
- 3/4 cup of Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup of sour cream
- 1/2 cup of Cheddar cheese, grated
Method
Step One
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Clean the lamb’s quarters thoroughly, remove any thick stems and roughly chop the leaves.
Step Two
In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent, stirring occasionally.
Step Three
Add the all-purpose flour to the saucepan and stir until it forms a paste. This will create the base for your sauce.
Step Four
Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and full-fat milk, ensuring there are no lumps in the mixture. Continue to cook this on medium heat until it starts to simmer.
Step Five
Add the grated nutmeg, salt, and black pepper to the sauce. Also, add 1/4 cup of the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir these ingredients in until the cheese has melted, and the sauce is smooth.
Step Six
Switch off the stove, add your chopped lamb’s quarters to the sauce, and mix until all the leaves are coated with the mixture. Stir in the sour cream next.
Step Seven
Transfer this mixture to a large baking dish, ensuring it is spread out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese and Cheddar cheese on top.
Step Eight
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. The gratin should be bubbling at the sides and the cheese on top should have melted and turned golden.
Step Nine
Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Creamy Lamb’s Quarters Gratin while it is still warm!
