Kohlrabi Au Gratin

Kohlrabi, a member of the cabbage family, is a unique and versatile vegetable known for its crisp texture and mild, slightly sweet flavor. In this recipe, we’ll explore how to prepare a delicious Kohlrabi Gratin. This dish combines tender slices of kohlrabi with a creamy sauce, a hint of seasoning, and a delightful topping of breadcrumbs and grated cheese. Whether you’re a kohlrabi enthusiast or looking to try it for the first time, this recipe offers a delightful way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable.

INGREDIENTS:

• Kohlrabi bulbs (sliced)
• Cream sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• Pepper and salt (for seasoning)
• Breadcrumbs
• Grated cheese (e.g., Parmesan or Gruyère)

INSTRUCTIONS:

Prepare the Kohlrabi:

1. Peel and Slice Kohlrabi: Start by peeling the kohlrabi bulbs to remove their tough outer skin. Then, slice them into thin, uniform rounds or half-moons. A thickness of approximately 1/4 inch works well for even cooking.

Layer and Season:

2. Arrange Kohlrabi in Baking Dish: Take a baking dish and arrange the sliced kohlrabi in layers. Ensure that each layer is even and slightly overlaps. This creates a beautiful presentation and allows the flavors to meld.
3. Season Each Layer: As you layer the kohlrabi, season each layer with a pinch of salt and a sprinkle of pepper. This ensures that the seasoning is distributed throughout the dish.

Create the Gratin:

4. Add Cream Sauce: Pour a generous amount of cream sauce over the layered kohlrabi. The sauce should seep through the layers, providing creaminess and flavor to every bite.
5. Top with Breadcrumbs and Grated Cheese: To add a delightful crunch and a layer of savory goodness, sprinkle a generous amount of breadcrumbs and grated cheese over the top of the gratin. This combination creates a delicious golden crust when baked.

6. Bake the Gratin: Preheat your oven to the recommended temperature (usually around 350°F or 180°C). Place the baking dish with the kohlrabi gratin in the oven and bake for approximately twenty minutes or until the top is beautifully golden brown, and the kohlrabi is tender.

Serve Your Kohlrabi Gratin:

7. Let Rest and Cool: After removing the gratin from the oven, allow it to rest for a few minutes. This helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to handle.
8. Slice and Serve: Use a sharp knife or a spatula to slice and serve your Kohlrabi Gratin. It can be enjoyed as a delectable side dish or even a light main course.

TIPS:

• Select Fresh Kohlrabi: Choose kohlrabi that feels firm and heavy for its size, with smooth skin and no signs of bruising or blemishes. Freshness is key to the best flavor.
• Prepare Cream Sauce: Ensure your cream sauce is smooth and well-seasoned. You can customize the seasoning to your taste, adding herbs or spices like nutmeg or thyme for extra flavor.
• Uniform Slicing: To ensure even cooking, slice the kohlrabi into uniform thickness. A mandoline slicer can be handy for achieving consistent results.
• Top with Cheese and Crumbs: The combination of breadcrumbs and grated cheese on top adds a delicious crunch and savory flavor to the gratin. Be generous with this layer for a satisfying texture.

Kohlrabi Gratin is a delightful way to showcase the unique flavor and texture of this vegetable. The creamy sauce, seasoned layers, and crispy topping create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Whether you’re serving it as part of a special meal or as a comforting weeknight dish, Kohlrabi Gratin is sure to be a hit. Experiment with herbs and spices to make it your own, and savor the wonderful world of kohlrabi.