Beetroot gratin with feta cheese

5 servings

100 minutes

Beetroot gratin with feta cheese is an elegant and aromatic dish of European cuisine that combines the delicate sweetness of baked beets with the creamy texture of feta. The history of gratin traces back to French gastronomy, where layered casseroles with cheese and cream became a symbol of cozy home dinners. In this version, fresh mint and garlic give the sauce a pronounced flavor that beautifully complements the natural sweetness of beets. Feta baked to a golden crust makes the texture rich and harmonious. This gratin can be served as a main dish or an exquisite side to meat and vegetable dishes. It pairs perfectly with a glass of white wine or herbal tea, while fresh mint leaves add a touch of freshness when served.

Energy value per serving

• Calories: 491.5
• Proteins: 17.8g
• Fats: 38.6g
• Carbohydrates: 18.1g

Ingredients

• Beet: 4 pc
• Heavy cream: 250 ml
• Mint: 2 stem
• Garlic: 1 head
• Feta cheese: 400 g
• Butter: 10 g
• Salt: to taste
• Black allspice: to taste

Cooking steps

1. Preheat the oven to 200 degrees. Wash the beets thoroughly and cut them in half. Place the halves in a heatproof dish, add a little water, lightly salt and pepper the beets, then cover with foil and bake for 50-55 minutes until the beets are soft.

   Required ingredients:

   • Beet: 4 pieces
   • Salt:  to taste
   • Black allspice:  to taste

2. Prepare the sauce: finely chopped mint leaves and chopped garlic mix with cream in a saucepan, bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and let sit for 15 minutes.

   Required ingredients:

   • Mint: 2 stems
   • Garlic: 1 head
   • Heavy cream: 250 ml

3. When the beet is cooked, take it out of the oven, remove the foil, and let it cool down, then peel it. Cut it into thick slices, about 0.6 cm thick. Layer all the beets in a baking dish, salting each layer. Increase the oven temperature to 225 degrees.

   Required ingredients:

   • Beet: 4 pieces
   • Salt:  to taste

4. Slice the feta cheese into thin slices. Evenly pour the creamy mint sauce over the layered beets, then arrange the feta slices over the entire surface. Bake in the oven for about 20 minutes - the feta should become slightly brown.

   Required ingredients:

   • Feta cheese: 400 g
   • Heavy cream: 250 ml

5. Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish the finished gratin with fresh mint leaves.

   Required ingredients:

   • Mint: 2 stems