Mary Berry Leek And Potato Gratin

Mary Berry's Leek and Potato Gratin is a classic dish that epitomizes the comfort and warmth of home cooking. Renowned for her simple yet delicious recipes, Mary Berry offers a version of this gratin that combines the subtle sweetness of leeks with the earthy depth of potatoes, all under a golden crust of cheese.

Brief Description of the Recipe

This gratin features thinly sliced potatoes and leeks, layered and bathed in a rich mixture of stock and cream, then topped with grated cheese. The result is a dish that’s creamy inside with a satisfyingly crunchy top layer.

Cultural or Historical Context

Leek and potato gratin is a dish that finds its roots in French cuisine, known for its rich, comforting gratins made with various vegetables. Mary Berry brings her touch to this tradition, making it accessible for home cooks.

Ingredients List

For a dish serving 6 people, you will need:

• Potatoes, 1kg, thinly sliced
• Leeks, 300g, thinly sliced
• Butter, 50g, plus extra for greasing
• Garlic cloves, 3, crushed
• Fresh thyme, 4 sprigs, leaves picked and chopped
• Single cream, 350ml
• Grated cheddar cheese, 100g
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Preparation Instructions

1. Start by preheating your oven and preparing the vegetables. Potatoes should be sliced thinly for even cooking.
2. Cook the leeks until soft, then layer the potatoes and leeks in a greased dish, seasoning each layer as you go.
3. Combine chicken stock and cream, pour over the layers, and top with grated cheese before baking until golden.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutritional Information

A serving is rich in carbohydrates and fats, providing energy and satiety. The exact nutritional values can vary, so it's advisable to calculate based on specific ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I make the gratin ahead of time? A: Yes, assemble the dish without baking and refrigerate. Bake as directed when ready to serve, adding extra time if starting from cold.

Q: How do I achieve a crispy top layer? A: Ensuring the top layer of potatoes is well-covered with cheese and cream, and baking until golden brown will achieve a crispy crust.

Q: Can other vegetables or proteins be added? A: Yes, the recipe is versatile. Try adding spinach, mushrooms, or cooked bacon for variation.

Mary Berry’s approach to this gratin emphasizes the harmony of simple ingredients coming together to create a dish greater than the sum of its parts, perfect for a cozy night in or to impress at a dinner party. Her expertise shines through in the balance of flavors and textures, making this leek and potato gratin a must-try recipe for any home cook​​​​​​.