Indulge in the rich flavors of Belgian cuisine with this exquisite Belgien Endive and Ham Gratin, also known as Chicons au Gratin. This dish beautifully combines the subtle bitterness of endives with the savory goodness of ham, all enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce and topped with a golden breadcrumb crust. Originating from the heart of Belgium, this gratin is a beloved comfort food that effortlessly marries simplicity with sophistication, making it a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire. Follow along to discover how to create this delectable dish that is sure to delight your taste buds and impress your guests.

Ingredients:

• 6 Belgien endives (chicons)
• 6 slices of ham
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups milk
• 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish and set it aside.

2- Prepare the Belgien endives by removing any damaged outer leaves and trimming the bottoms. Cut each endive in half lengthwise.

3- In a large pot of boiling salted water, blanch the endives for about 5 minutes, then drain them well and pat them dry with paper towels.

4- Wrap each blanched endive half with a slice of ham and place them in the prepared baking dish, arranging them in a single layer.

5- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes to make a roux.

6- Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook the sauce until it thickens, stirring frequently, for about 5 minutes.

7- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the grated Gruyère cheese until it's fully melted and incorporated into the sauce. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste.

8- Pour the cheese sauce over the endives wrapped in ham, ensuring they are evenly coated.

9- In a small bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture over the top of the endives in the baking dish.

10- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the gratin is bubbling and the top is golden brown.

11- Once done, remove the Belgien Endive and Ham Gratin from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

12- Serve the gratin hot as a delightful main course or as a side dish alongside crusty bread or a fresh salad. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness of this classic Belgian dish!

Nutritional Values:

Here are the approximate nutritional values for the listed ingredients:

Belgien endives (chicons):

• Calories: 24 per endive
• Carbohydrates: 5.4g per endive
• Protein: 1.3g per endive
• Fat: 0.1g per endive
• Fiber: 3.1g per endive

benefits:

• Rich in fiber, aiding digestion and promoting gut health.
• High in vitamins A and K, supporting eye health and bone strength.

Slices of ham:

• Calories: 42 per slice (average)
• Protein: 6g per slice (average)
• Fat: 1.5g per slice (average)
• Sodium: 520mg per slice (average)

benefits:

• Excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Contains essential minerals like iron, zinc, and phosphorus, supporting various bodily functions.

Butter:

• Calories: 102 per tablespoon
• Fat: 11.5g per tablespoon
• No significant protein or carbohydrates

benefits:

• Provides a source of healthy fats, which are essential for brain function and hormone production.
• Contains fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K, important for overall health and immunity.

All-purpose flour:

• Calories: 28 per tablespoon
• Carbohydrates: 6g per tablespoon
• Protein: 1g per tablespoon
• Fat: 0g per tablespoon

benefits:

• Contains carbohydrates, providing energy for daily activities and bodily functions.
• Contains small amounts of protein, contributing to muscle repair and growth.

Milk (whole):

• Calories: 148 per cup
• Carbohydrates: 12g per cup
• Protein: 8g per cup
• Fat: 8g per cup

benefits:

• Excellent source of calcium, essential for strong bones and teeth.
• Contains high-quality protein, important for muscle growth and repair.

Grated Gruyère cheese:

• Calories: 450 per cup
• Protein: 32g per cup
• Fat: 33g per cup
• Calcium: 1200mg per cup

benefits:

• Rich in calcium and phosphorus, promoting bone health and strength.
• Provides high-quality protein, aiding in muscle repair and growth.

Ground nutmeg:

• Negligible caloric value

benefits:

• Contains antioxidants with anti-inflammatory properties, supporting overall health.
• Adds flavor and aroma to dishes, enhancing their taste appeal.

Salt and pepper:

• Negligible caloric value

benefits:

• Enhance the flavor of dishes, making them more palatable.
• Salt provides essential electrolytes like sodium and chloride, important for hydration and nerve function.

Breadcrumbs:

• Calories: 110 per 1/2 cup
• Carbohydrates: 20g per 1/2 cup
• Protein: 3g per 1/2 cup
• Fat: 1.5g per 1/2 cup

benefits:

• Adds texture to dishes, creating a crispy and crunchy coating.
• Provides carbohydrates, offering energy for daily activities.

Grated Parmesan cheese:

• Calories: 43 per tablespoon
• Protein: 3.8g per tablespoon
• Fat: 2.9g per tablespoon
• Calcium: 138mg per tablespoon

benefits:

• Rich in protein and calcium, supporting muscle and bone health.
• Adds a savory flavor to dishes, enhancing their overall taste.

These values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as brand, preparation methods, and specific types of ingredients used.