When it comes to healthy eating, broccoli is a superstar in the world of vegetables. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, it’s no wonder that broccoli is a favorite among health-conscious individuals. However, cooking broccoli the right way can make all the difference in its taste and nutritional value. In this article, we’ll share a delightful recipe that will change the way you cook and enjoy broccoli.
The Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need:
For the Dish:
1 broccoli
500g of potatoes
40g grated parmesan cheese
40g grated mozzarella cheese
For the Bechamel Sauce:
2 tablespoons of butter
2 tablespoons of flour
2 cups of whole milk (500ml)
1 teaspoon of pink salt
1 pinch of nutmeg
20g grated parmesan cheese
A Handy Tip:
If you’re not a fan of broccoli, don’t worry! You can make this same recipe with cauliflower for an equally delicious dish.
Method of Preparation
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s get started with the preparation:
preparation:
Begin by cutting the broccoli bouquet and cooking it in a pan of boiling, salted water for 2 minutes. Once done, drain, chop them into smaller pieces, and set them aside.
Peel the potatoes, soak them in water for 5 minutes to remove excess starch, and then cut them into slices.
Cook the potato slices in boiling, salted water for about 7 minutes, until they are tender. Once done, drain the potatoes and set them aside while you prepare the creamy bechamel sauce.
Making the Bechamel Sauce
In a pan over medium heat, add the butter and let it melt. Then, add the flour, mixing well until it forms a smooth paste.
Gradually add the milk and pink salt, stirring constantly. Add a pinch of nutmeg and the grated parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
Assembly
Now that we have all our components ready, it’s time to assemble this mouthwatering dish:
Line a round pan with a removable bottom with baking paper and grease the paper with olive oil.
Start by spreading a layer of the creamy bechamel sauce at the bottom of the pan.
Next, place a layer of sliced potatoes on top of the sauce.
Drizzle a little more sauce over the layer of potatoes and sprinkle the grated parmesan and finely chopped broccoli evenly.
Repeat these layers until you’ve used up all the ingredients, finishing with a final layer of parmesan and grated mozzarella on top.
Preheat your oven to 180°C and bake the dish for approximately 35 minutes, or until it turns golden brown and bubbling.
Once done, carefully remove it from the oven, unmold the dish, and get ready to serve this delicious creation to your eager guests or family.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this recipe takes ordinary broccoli and turns it into a mouthwatering, cheesy delight. The combination of creamy bechamel sauce, tender potatoes, and vibrant broccoli creates a dish that’s not only nutritious but also incredibly flavorful.
So, the next time you consider cooking broccoli, remember this recipe and the fantastic transformation it brings to this wholesome vegetable. You’ll not only enjoy the taste but also benefit from the rich nutrients packed within. Give it a try, and you’ll never want to cook broccoli any other way!