| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 45 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 211 | 5.4g | 1.9g | 31g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 17g | 6.8g | 10g | 0.22g |
If there’s one thing you should know about me, it’s that I adore reimagining dishes from my Gujarati heritage and West Coast upbringing. This recipe, the mouthwatering White Bean Gratin with Clary Sage, wonderfully encapsulates both this passion and my dual-cultural inheritance. A twist on the traditional gratin, this version turns toward a fruitier spin with autumnal flavours of apple, pear and the citrusy high note of fresh-squeezed orange juice.
The Fusion of Flavors
Being raised in California, I’ve developed a fondness for fresh, summery flavors. This recipe captures that spirit, interweaving it with elements from my Gujarati roots. The heartiness of the white beans ingeniously complements the sweetness of the fruits, while the clary sage adds an earthy touch. This White Bean Gratin is a vivid representation of both my worlds: a sweet fusion of the vibrant West Coast and the soulful Indian sub-continent.
Health Benefits and Pairings
Not only does the White Bean Gratin with Clary Sage taste divine, but it’s also shockingly healthy. It’s a rich source of protein, coming from the white beans, and it’s loaded with Vitamin C from the orange juice. The use of olive oil instead of butter, and low-fat milk as opposed to cream, makes it lower in saturated fats. Plus, the very presence of sage brings a host of benefits: it’s a known antioxidant and also has anti-inflammatory properties. Now, tell me, who wouldn’t love a dish that’s as healthful as it is flavorful?
And if you’re wondering what to pair this gratin with, it’s incredibly versatile. Try it alongside a simple arugula salad or a roast chicken, or maybe even with a spiced chicken tikka for a thrilling flavor adventure. Almost any dish that embraces a bit of fruitiness will be a wonderful companion to this gratin.
To sum it up, I love the White Bean Gratin with Clary Sage because it not only represents my dual cultures, but also brings a perfect blend of health, simplicity and flavor to the table. Hope you’ll give it a try too!
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups of canned white beans
- 1 large apple, peeled and diced
- 1 large pear, peeled and diced
- 1 cup of fresh orange juice
- 1 cup of low-fat milk
- 2 tablespoons of honey
- 1 1/2 tablespoons of clary sage, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup of grated parmesan cheese
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Start heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
Step Two
As your oil heats, peel and dice your apple and pear. Once they are diced, add them to the pan. Cook until they just begin to soften, which should take about five minutes.
Step Three
When the apple and pear are softened, add the canned white beans, orange juice, and low-fat milk. Stir everything together until fully combined.
Step Four
To your mixture, add honey, finely chopped clary sage, sea salt and ground black pepper. Stir everything together until the ingredients are evenly dispersed.
Step Five
Transfer your mixture to a baking dish that’s been lightly greased or lined with parchment paper. Smooth the mixture out so it lays flat in the dish.
Step Six
Sprinkle the top of your mixture with breadcrumbs. Use a spoon to lightly press them into the mixture. Repeat this process with the grated parmesan cheese.
Step Seven
Place your baking dish into the oven. Let your gratin bake for about 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy. Once done, allow your gratin to cool for a few minutes before serving.
