Welsh Leek and Potato Gratin is a classic dish that combines the earthy flavors of leeks and potatoes with a rich and creamy sauce, topped with melted cheese for a comforting and satisfying meal. This dish has roots in Welsh culinary traditions, where hearty ingredients like leeks and potatoes are commonly used in various recipes.

The history of this gratin dish likely traces back to the agricultural heritage of Wales, where leeks and potatoes were staple crops that could be grown easily in the region's fertile soil. Over time, cooks in Wales developed recipes that showcased these ingredients, often incorporating dairy products like cheese and cream to create indulgent and delicious dishes.

Today, Welsh Leek and Potato Gratin continues to be a beloved comfort food, enjoyed by families and food enthusiasts alike for its simplicity, hearty flavors, and cozy appeal, making it a perfect choice for a comforting meal on any occasion.

Ingredients:

- 4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced

- 2 large leeks, washed and thinly sliced

- 1 cup heavy cream

- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Butter for greasing the baking dish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with butter.

2. Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the baking dish.

3. Spread half of the sliced leeks over the potatoes.

4. Season with salt and pepper.

5. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, leeks, salt, and pepper.

6. Pour the heavy cream evenly over the layers.

7. Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese on top.

8. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.

9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.

10. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your creamy and comforting Welsh Leek and Potato Gratin!

Nutrition Value:

1. Potatoes (4 large, peeled and thinly sliced):

  - Calories: Approximately 800 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: About 184 grams

  - Protein: Around 20 grams

  - Fat: Less than 1 gram

  - Sodium: Varies based on seasoning

  - Cholesterol: None

  - Vitamins: Rich in vitamin C, vitamin B6, potassium, and manganese

  - Minerals: Contains iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and zinc

  - Nutritional benefits: Potatoes are a good source of complex carbohydrates, fiber, and essential nutrients like potassium, which supports heart health and muscle function.

2. Leeks (2 large, washed and thinly sliced):

  - Calories: Approximately 100 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: About 24 grams

  - Protein: Around 4 grams

  - Fat: Less than 1 gram

  - Sodium: Varies based on preparation

  - Cholesterol: None

  - Vitamins: High in vitamin K, vitamin A, and vitamin C

  - Minerals: Contains folate, manganese, and iron

  - Nutritional benefits: Leeks are low in calories and rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. They also provide dietary fiber, which supports digestive health.

3. Heavy Cream (1 cup):

  - Calories: Approximately 800 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: About 7 grams

  - Protein: Around 5 grams

  - Fat: About 88 grams

  - Sodium: Varies based on brand

  - Cholesterol: About 300 mg

  - Vitamins: Contains vitamin A, vitamin D, and vitamin E

  - Minerals: May have small amounts of calcium and potassium

  - Nutritional benefits: Heavy cream is high in calories and fat, providing richness and creaminess to dishes. It also contributes to the texture and flavor of the gratin.

4. Grated Cheddar Cheese (1 cup):

  - Calories: Approximately 450 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: About 1 gram

  - Protein: Around 25 grams

  - Fat: About 37 grams

  - Sodium: Around 700 mg

  - Cholesterol: About 120 mg

  - Vitamins: Contains vitamin A, vitamin B12, and vitamin K2

  - Minerals: Rich in calcium and phosphorus

  - Nutritional benefits: Cheddar cheese is a good source of protein and calcium, important for bone health. It adds a savory flavor and melts beautifully on top of the gratin.

5. Salt and Pepper (to taste):

  - Calories: Negligible

  - Carbohydrates: Negligible

  - Protein: Negligible

  - Fat: Negligible

  - Sodium: Varies based on amount used

  - Cholesterol: None

  - Vitamins: None

  - Minerals: None

  - Nutritional benefits: Salt enhances flavor, while pepper adds a bit of spiciness. Both are used in moderation for taste rather than nutritional value.

6. Butter (for greasing the baking dish):

  - Calories: Approximately 100 kcal (for greasing a standard-sized dish)

  - Carbohydrates: Negligible

  - Protein: Negligible

  - Fat: About 12 grams (for a tablespoon of butter)

  - Sodium: Around 80 mg

  - Cholesterol: About 30 mg

  - Vitamins: Contains vitamin A and vitamin D

  - Minerals: Contains small amounts of calcium and phosphorus

  - Nutritional benefits: Butter adds richness and helps prevent sticking, but it is high in saturated fat and should be used sparingly for a balanced diet.

These nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.