Potato Gratin Bake

This delicious Potato Gratin Bake, known as "Kartupelu Gratin Jeb Sacepums" in Latvian, is a comforting dish made from simple yet flavorful ingredients. It is perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. The dish boasts of its creamy and cheesy texture, infused with the aromatic herbs that bring a touch of elegance to your meal. Based on a traditional Latvian recipe, this gratin combines the richness of cream and cheese with the earthiness of potatoes, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Enjoy this dish as a standalone meal or as a hearty side.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

7 potatoes (peeled and thinly sliced)
150 ml heavy cream
300 ml milk
Cheese (your choice, grated)

Spices

Thyme or rosemary (fresh, to taste)
Salt (to taste)
Pepper (to taste)

Sauces

Garlic (crushed or minced, to taste)

Preparation Time

Total time: Approximately 40 minutes

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Prepare the Potatoes: Begin by peeling the potatoes. Rinse them under cold water and slice them into thin, even pieces. This will ensure they cook uniformly.
Create the Sauce Base: In a large pot, combine the 150 ml of heavy cream and 300 ml of milk. Add the herbs—thyme or rosemary—along with crushed garlic for an aromatic touch. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook the Potatoes: Add the sliced potatoes to the pot, stirring gently to coat them with the creamy mixture. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, occasionally stirring to prevent sticking. Let the potatoes cook for about 10 minutes or until they begin to soften.
Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 200°C (about 390°F). While preheating, arrange the partially cooked potatoes with the creamy sauce into a heat-resistant baking dish, spreading them evenly.
Add the Cheese: Generously sprinkle grated cheese over the potato mixture, ensuring the entire surface is covered. This will create a golden, bubbly crust as it bakes.
Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Check for Doneness: Before removing, insert a fork or knife into the potatoes to ensure they are tender and cooked through.
Serve and Enjoy: Once ready, remove the gratin from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. This rest time allows the dish to set slightly, making it easier to serve.

Tips

Cheese choice: For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of cheeses such as Gruyère, cheddar, or Parmesan.
Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like basil or oregano for varied flavors.
Healthier Option: Substitute heavy cream with full-fat milk or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Advance Prep: You can prepare the dish in advance, refrigerate, and bake it when needed.

Nutrition

Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
Protein: 10g
Fats: 18g
Carbs: 40g

Variations

Vegan Option: Use coconut milk or almond milk with nutritional yeast and dairy-free cheese.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes or paprika for a hint of heat.
Meaty Flavor: Incorporate cooked bacon or ham pieces between the layers of potatoes for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the creamy richness.
Ideal side dish for roasted meats, such as chicken or beef.
Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for added color and freshness.

Best Places

Lido Restaurant - Traditional Latvian cuisine with a cozy atmosphere. Location: Krasta iela 76, Riga, Latvia.
Riga Pie Mama’s Bistro - Known for hearty and comforting Latvian classics. Location: Laipu iela 8, Riga, Latvia.
Laima Cafe - Offers a delightful selection of traditional Latvian dishes. Location: Aspazijas bulvāris 20, Riga, Latvia.
Folkklubs Ala Pagrabs - Offers vibrant live music and authentic Latvian meals. Location: Peldu iela 19, Riga, Latvia.
Neiburgs Restaurant - Renowned for modern interpretations of classic Latvian dishes. Location: Jauniela 25/27, Riga, Latvia.
St. Petrus Restaurant & Bar - Offers stunning views alongside exquisite Latvian cuisine. Location: 11 Skārņu Street, Riga, Latvia.
Red Onion - A fusion of modern and traditional Latvian flavors. Location: K. Valdemāra Street 1, Riga, Latvia.
Rozengrāls - Medieval-themed restaurant offering authentic Latvian dishes. Location: Rozena Street 1, Riga, Latvia.
Three Chefs Restaurant "The Good Mustache" - A modern take on Latvian gastronomy. Location: Torna iela 4, Riga, Latvia.
Aparjods Restaurant - Celebrates the richness of traditional Latvian cuisine. Location: Ventas iela 1a, Sigulda, Latvia.

Enjoy this comforting Potato Gratin Bake and explore the flavors that bring a piece of Latvian heritage to your table!