Gratin what is

See more words from the same year. Accessed 14 Nov. More Definitions for gratin. See the full definition for gratin in the English Language Learners Dictionary. Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

Log in Sign Up. Save Word. Definition of gratin. Share this recipe. Sponsored content. Subscribe to our magazine Subscribe to delicious. Download our digital version Subscribe to the digital edition of delicious. I didn't receive it. Scalloped potatoes and au gratin potatoes have a lot in common. The main thing that separates the starchy dishes is how dairy fits into the equation. Scalloped potatoes are usually baked in a casserole dish with heavy cream, milk, and aromatic herbs.

Of course, there are other differences: As a general rule of thumb, Potatoes au gratin is topped with breadcrumbs; meanwhile, scalloped potatoes can involve breadcrumbs, but the crunchy topper is less of an iconic signature of the dish. It's a versatile topper that's an easy way to add flavor and of course, more cheese, to numerous dishes. It helps to season each layer of a gratin like a casserole or a lasagna as you build it, and press down the layers before adding the next one.

Some recipes skip the breadcrumb topping but most French chefs agree the breadcrumbs are important for the flavor and texture they add. They can be helpful in the cooking process as well because the fat can separate from the cheese while it bakes. The breadcrumb topping also helps to soak up some of the fat. Potato au gratin is a popular recipe that is prepared in the au gratin style. Finally, top with cheese and seasoned bread crumbs and bake. Vegetables such as cauliflower, green beans, eggplant or tomatoes can be prepared au gratin.

Unlike with potatoes, some vegetable gratins involve cooking the vegetables partially and then baking them in a dish with the gratin topping. For instance, for a cauliflower gratin , first, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil and Kosher salt , then roast them on a flat sheet pan at F for about 15 to 20 minutes.