Catalan-style Patates Gratinades

Ingredients

In this Catalan adaptation, the traditional German Kartoffelklöße is transformed into a creamy and aromatic potato gratin. The original dumplings are replaced with thinly sliced potatoes, creating a different texture and presentation. The flavors are also modified to incorporate the vibrant Mediterranean herbs and spices commonly found in Catalan cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Kartoffelklöße, so you can check it out.

• 1 kg (2.2 lbs) potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced 1 kg (2.2 lbs) potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 300 ml (1 1/4 cups) heavy cream 300 ml (1 1/4 cups) heavy cream
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 50 g (1/2 cup) grated Parmesan cheese 50 g (1/2 cup) grated Parmesan cheese

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 380 kcal / 1590 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 15g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 32g, 3g
• Protein: 7g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. 2.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, minced garlic, chopped parsley, thyme leaves, salt, and black pepper.
3. 3.
   Grease a baking dish with butter or olive oil.
4. 4.
   Arrange a layer of thinly sliced potatoes in the baking dish, slightly overlapping each other.
5. 5.
   Pour a portion of the cream mixture over the potatoes, ensuring they are well coated.
6. 6.
   Repeat the layering process until all the potatoes and cream mixture are used, finishing with a layer of potatoes on top.
7. 7.
   Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top layer.
8. 8.
   Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes.
9. 9.
   Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the top is golden and the potatoes are tender.
10. 10.
    Allow the Catalan-style Patates Gratinades to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Potatoes — Make sure to slice the potatoes thinly and evenly to ensure even cooking throughout the dish.
• Heavy cream — Use full-fat heavy cream for a rich and creamy texture in the gratin.
• Parmesan cheese — Opt for freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.

Tips & Tricks

• For a twist, add a layer of thinly sliced tomatoes or roasted red peppers between the potato layers.
• Experiment with different herbs such as rosemary or oregano to customize the flavors.
• To achieve a crispier top, broil the gratin for a few minutes at the end of the baking time.
• Allow the gratin to rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
• Leftovers can be reheated in the oven for a few minutes to regain their crispiness.

Serving advice

Serve the Catalan-style Patates Gratinades as a side dish alongside roasted meats or grilled fish. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette.

Presentation advice

To elevate the presentation, garnish the gratin with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme leaves before serving. Serve it directly from the baking dish for a rustic and inviting look.