Endive and Ham Gratin with Creamy Dill

Endive and Ham Gratin with Creamy Dill

Classic DishEndive Gratin

Prep: 25 min • Cook: 30 min. A classic Belgian endive and ham gratin, elevated with a touch of fresh dill infused into the creamy béchamel sauce. This comforting dish is baked until the cheese is melted and the top is golden brown and bubbling.

Preparation time
25 min
Cooking time
30 min
Total time
55 min
Servings
4

Instructions

Prepare Endives

  1. 1Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. 2Place the prepared endives in a pot of boiling salted water and blanch for 5 minutes. Drain well and pat dry.
  3. 3Lay a slice of ham flat and wrap one piece of blanched endive in it. Repeat for all endive pieces.

Make Béchamel Sauce

  1. 1Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux, without browning.
  2. 2Gradually whisk in the warm milk until the sauce is smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until thickened.
  3. 3Stir in the chopped fresh dill, grated nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste.
  4. 4Remove from heat and stir in half of the grated Gruyère cheese until melted.

Assemble and Bake

  1. 1Arrange the ham-wrapped endives in a baking dish.
  2. 2Pour the creamy dill béchamel sauce evenly over the endives.
  3. 3Sprinkle the remaining Gruyère cheese over the top.
  4. 4Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and the top is golden brown.
  5. 5Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories
450 kcal
Protein
22 g
Fat
30 g
Carbs
20 g
NutrientPer serving
Calories450 kcal
Protein22 g
Fat30 g
Carbs20 g

Tips

  • Ensure the endives are well-drained after blanching to avoid a watery sauce and gratin.
  • Adjust the amount of dill to your preference; a little goes a long way in adding its distinct aromatic flavor.
  • Serve hot as a main course or a side dish, perhaps with some crusty bread to soak up the extra sauce.

By Chef Michael Ilin