Spiced Celeriac and Apple Gratin with Crispy Rosemary Breadcrumbs

Ingredients

• •1 medium celeriac (about 600g), peeled and thinly sliced
• •2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
• •300ml heavy cream
• •100ml whole milk
• •1 garlic clove, finely minced
• •1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• •1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• •1/2 teaspoon salt
• •1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• •50g breadcrumbs
• •1 tablespoon olive oil
• •1 sprig fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• •30g grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and lightly grease a medium-sized baking dish.

2. 2

   In a small saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, minced garlic, nutmeg, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Heat gently over low heat until warmed through, then set aside.

3. 3

   Layer half of the sliced celeriac and apples in the prepared baking dish, slightly overlapping the slices.

4. 4

   Pour half of the spiced cream mixture evenly over the first layer. Repeat with the remaining celeriac, apples, and cream mixture to create a second layer.

5. 5

   Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until the celeriac is tender when pierced with a knife.

6. 6

   While the gratin bakes, prepare the breadcrumb topping. In a small skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the breadcrumbs and chopped rosemary, stirring frequently until golden and crisp. Remove from heat and set aside.

7. 7

   After 40 minutes, remove the foil from the baking dish and sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top. If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it over the breadcrumbs as well.

8. 8

   Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.

9. 9

   Remove from the oven and let the gratin rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Enjoy as a cozy side dish alongside your favorite main course.