Description
Jamie Oliver Courgette gratin is a baked dish featuring layers of thinly sliced courgettes (zucchinis) cooked in a creamy sauce, topped with cheese and breadcrumbs. The result is a rich and savory dish with a crispy, golden top and a soft, creamy center.
Ingredients
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- 4–5 medium courgettes (zucchinis), thinly sliced
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- 2 tablespoons olive oil
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- 2 cloves garlic, minced
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- 1 small onion, finely chopped
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- 200ml double cream (heavy cream)
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- 100g grated cheese (Gruyère, cheddar, or Parmesan)
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- 50g breadcrumbs
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- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
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- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Grease a baking dish or gratin dish with a little olive oil or butter.
In a large frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened and slightly golden. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Thinly slice the courgettes into rounds, about 5mm thick. You can use a mandoline for even slices, or a sharp knife.
Pour the double cream into the pan with the onions and garlic. Stir in the thyme, and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Simmer the cream mixture for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened, then remove from heat.
Arrange half of the sliced courgettes in an even layer in the greased baking dish. Pour half of the cream mixture over the courgettes and sprinkle with half of the grated cheese. Repeat with the remaining courgettes, cream mixture, and cheese.
In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the courgette gratin. This will create a golden, crispy crust when baked.
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the courgettes are tender and the top is golden and bubbling.
Remove the gratin from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added color and freshness, if desired.