Transform Winter Meals with a Savory Celeriac Gratin Recipe

As winter settles in, home cooks are seeking comforting meals that offer warmth and satisfaction. A versatile dish gaining attention is a celeriac gratin, which highlights the often-overlooked ingredient, celeriac. This recipe is not only simple but can be tailored to suit various dietary preferences, making it a perfect choice for the colder months.

Ingredients for a Hearty Gratin

To prepare this gratin, gather the following ingredients:

– 300g/10.5oz of potato (one large baking potato), peeled or scrubbed and cut into 1cm/0.5in slices
– 2 shallots, finely sliced
– 3 tablespoons of finely chopped flat-leaf parsley
– 350g/12oz of peeled celeriac (approximately half a large one), finely sliced
– 50–100g/1.75–3.5oz of air-cured ham, such as Parma or Serrano, thickly sliced (optional)
– 1.5 tablespoons of capers, rinsed and drained
– 300ml/10fl oz of full-fat crème fraîche
– 500ml/18fl oz of full-fat milk
– 1.5 tablespoons of Dijon or grainy mustard
– 1 garlic clove, finely chopped
– Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

This dish can easily accommodate or exclude the ham, allowing for a low-waste meal that utilizes everyday vegetables.

Simple Preparation Steps

Begin by preheating the oven to 200°C/180°C Fan/Gas 6. In a large bowl, combine the sliced potato, shallots, parsley, celeriac, and ham if desired. Add the capers and season the mixture with freshly ground black pepper and a pinch of sea salt. Transfer this mixture to an ovenproof dish.

In a small pan, heat the crème fraîche and milk together. Stir in the mustard and garlic, seasoning with half a teaspoon of flaky sea salt and pepper. Allow the mixture to reach a gentle boil before pouring it over the vegetable blend in the dish. The sauce will not completely cover the vegetables, which is acceptable.

Bake the gratin for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. If the top browns too quickly, cover it loosely with foil. Once baked, let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

This celeriac gratin not only serves as a warming meal but also showcases the potential of often-neglected ingredients. It embodies the essence of winter cooking, providing a hearty option for those looking to make the most of seasonal produce. Enjoy the rich flavors and the satisfaction of a delicious, low-waste dish this winter.