Description: Irish Leek and Potato Gratin is a classic Irish dish that combines tender leeks, creamy potatoes, and rich cheese, baked to golden perfection. This comforting side dish is perfect for any occasion, from cozy family dinners to festive holiday gatherings. With its creamy texture and delicate flavors, it’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Serving Size: 6 servings
Ingredients:
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 leeks, washed and thinly sliced (white and light green parts only)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1 cup grated Irish cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray and set aside.
2. Prepare the Leeks and Potatoes:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced leeks and minced garlic, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to form a roux, and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth, and continue cooking until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes. Stir in half of the grated cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Assemble the Gratin:
Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spread half of the sautéed leek mixture over the potatoes. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the leeks and potatoes, spreading it evenly.
Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, leeks, and cheese sauce.
5. Bake the Gratin:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
After 45 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining grated cheese over the top of the gratin. Return to the oven and bake, uncovered, for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown, and the potatoes are tender.
6. Serve:
Remove the gratin from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired, and serve hot as a delicious side dish alongside your favorite main course.
Note: You can customize this gratin by adding cooked bacon or ham for extra flavor, or by using different types of cheese according to your preference. Enjoy!
