Step by Step Instructions
1. Preparation of the Cheese Béchamel
- In a medium saucepan, melt 50g butter over medium heat.
- Add 50g of flour and mix well to form a roux. Cook for 2 minutes without browning.
- Gradually pour in 500 ml of milk , whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Continue cooking until thickened.
- Add 100g of grated cheese , mix until melted.
- Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if you like).
2. Assembling the Eggs and Ham
- Cut 6 hard-boiled eggs in half.
- Wrap each egg half in half a slice of ham .
3. Assembling the Gratin
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Arrange the eggs in a baking dish, cut side down.
- Cover the eggs with the cheesy béchamel sauce .
4. Cooking the Gratin
- Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the sauce is bubbly and golden.
- If necessary, place under the grill for 2 minutes to brown further.
5. Service
- Serve hot with a crisp green salad or seasonal vegetables.
Tips for a Perfect Gratin
- Avoid lumps by adding the milk gradually and whisking.
- Do not overcook the eggs : they are already cooked, watch the cooking carefully.
- Use a good cheese for more flavor.
Recipe Variations
- Hard Boiled Eggs with Spinach : Add sautéed spinach to the béchamel sauce.
- Light Version : Opt for skim milk and light cream.
- Adding Mushrooms : Perfect for added texture and flavor.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
- Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2 to 3 days .
- Reheat in the oven at 160°C for 10 minutes. Avoid the microwave to preserve the texture of the eggs.
Food and Drink Pairings
This dish is best paired with a crisp green salad and a dry white wine like a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. For a non-alcoholic option, homemade lemonade or sparkling water with a slice of lemon will do the trick.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don’t burn the béchamel : Pay attention to the temperature.
- Season the sauce properly for a balanced flavor.
- Cook the roux enough to avoid the raw flour taste.
Nutritional Benefits
This dish is rich in protein and calcium thanks to the eggs, ham, and cheese. The béchamel also provides essential fats for a balanced meal.
Presentation Suggestions
Serve the eggs au gratin in deep plates, garnished with chopped fresh parsley to add a touch of color and freshness.
Conclusion
Hard-boiled eggs with ham and cheesy béchamel sauce are a comforting and tasty dish that will delight your guests. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, this recipe will quickly become a classic in your kitchen. Try it today!
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