Preparing Endives Au Gratin

Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including boiling the endives and baking)

Equipment Needed

• Medium-sized saucepan
• Small baking dish (or individual gratin dishes)
• Whisk
• Knife and cutting board

Ingredients

• 2 large endives
• 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese (or another melting cheese like Emmental or Swiss)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Preparation

1. Prepare the Endives:
   • Trim the bottoms of the endives and remove any damaged outer leaves.
   • Cut each endive in half lengthwise.
2. Cook the Endives:
   • Bring a medium-sized saucepan of salted water to a boil.
   • Add the endives and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
   • Drain the endives well and set aside.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
   • In the same saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
   • Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux.
   • Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.
   • Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Arrange the cooked endives in a small baking dish or individual gratin dishes.
   • Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the endives.
5. Gratiné:
   • Sprinkle the grated Gruyère cheese on top of the endives and sauce.
6. Bake:
   • Place the dish(es) in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and lightly golden on top.
7. Serve:
   • Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.