Almond-Crusted Fennel Gratin
Category: Side Dishes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fennel bulbs | 1 kg |
| Provola cheese | 150 g |
| Breadcrumbs | 50 g |
| Sliced almonds | 20 g |
| Fresh parsley | To taste |
| Fresh rosemary | To taste |
| Extra virgin olive oil | To taste |
| Fine salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
Preparation Steps:
To begin preparing this delightful almond-crusted fennel gratin, the first step is to clean the fennel. Start by trimming off the base and the tough tops of the fennel bulbs. Peel away the outermost, fibrous layers until you reach the tender inner parts. Once cleaned, slice the fennel into wedges.
Next, finely chop the fresh parsley and rosemary. These aromatic herbs will infuse the dish with their lovely fragrance and flavor.
In a mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper, then stir in the finely chopped herbs and the sliced almonds. Cube the provola cheese and add it to the breadcrumb mixture. Mix thoroughly to ensure the breadcrumbs are evenly coated with the herbs, almonds, and cheese.
Now, prepare a rectangular baking dish, approximately 25×15 cm in size, by lightly greasing it with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Arrange the fennel wedges in the dish, ensuring they are spread out evenly. Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the fennel, ensuring a light coating to help with the baking process.
Top the fennel with the prepared breadcrumb and almond mixture, pressing it down gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well to the fennel. For an extra touch of richness, drizzle a little more olive oil over the top.
Bake the fennel in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 25–30 minutes, or until the fennel is tender and the crust is golden brown and crispy.
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This warm, comforting side dish is perfect to accompany a variety of main courses, bringing a unique combination of sweet fennel, nutty almonds, and creamy cheese. Enjoy!
This recipe for Almond-Crusted Fennel Gratin is not only a delicious accompaniment but also a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something special. The earthy flavor of fennel pairs beautifully with the crispy breadcrumb crust, and the addition of almonds gives it a delightful crunch, while provola cheese melts to create a rich, savory finish. It’s an excellent choice for a side dish to complement meats, pastas, or even enjoyed on its own.
