Kabocha no Gratin

Kabocha no Gratin is a creamy and comforting Japanese dish featuring sweet kabocha squash, richly blended with a cheesy béchamel sauce and topped with a golden crust. This dish is perfect for a cozy meal, combining the natural sweetness of kabocha with savory flavors for a delightful vegetarian main course.

Ingredients

• Kabocha squash - 300 grams
• Butter - 30 grams
• All-purpose flour - 30 grams
• Milk - 250 milliliters
• Cheddar cheese, grated - 100 grams
• Parmesan cheese, grated - 30 grams
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
• Nutmeg - a pinch
• Breadcrumbs - 30 grams
• Olive oil - 1 tablespoon
• Chopped parsley (for garnish) - optional

Steps

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Cut the kabocha squash in half, remove the seeds, and slice it into small cubes.
3. Steam the kabocha cubes for about 15 minutes until tender, then mash them lightly with a fork and set aside.
4. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes to create a roux.
5. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Continue to cook, stirring, until the sauce thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
6. Add the grated cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg to the béchamel sauce, stirring until the cheese melts completely.
7. Combine the mashed kabocha with the cheese sauce, mixing well until the kabocha is fully incorporated.
8. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and spread evenly.
9. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil and sprinkle them evenly over the top of the gratin.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
11. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired before serving.

Nutrition

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 12 g
• Carbs: 35 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 650 mg
• Cholesterol: 40 mg
• Total Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Water: 0.25 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in vitamins A and C, promoting healthy skin and immune function.
• High in fiber, aiding in digestion and maintaining gut health.

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