Recipe for a delicious Leek, Parmesan, and Hazelnut Gratin

Leek, Parmesan, and Hazelnut Gratin Chef Erik Anderson, co-owner of Grand Cafe in Minneapolis, takes the humble leek and elevates it in this decadent gratin. He adds crunch with panko breadcrumbs, texture with hazelnuts, and flavor with garlic and thyme. Creamy and crunchy with a gorgeous golden-brown crust, it’s brilliant in its simplicity.

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SERVINGS
6-8

INGREDIENTS

2 ¼ cups lukewarm water, plus more as needed
½ cup unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, peeled
6 sprigs thyme
¾ cup plus 2 tablespoons whole toasted and peeled hazelnuts
2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Fresh lemon juice, if needed
2 tablespoons panko bread crumbs
1 teaspoon chopped fresh chives

HOW TO MAKE IT

Step 1/4

Preheat the oven to 375°F.

Step 2/4

Bring a large cocotte of water to a boil and fill a bowl with ice and water to make an ice-water bath. Add the leeks to the boiling water and cook until bright green and slightly softened, 2 to 3 minutes. Shock the leeks in the ice-water bath to prevent further cooking. Drain and set aside.

Step 3/4

In a 4-quart cast-iron cocotte, combine the cream, butter, garlic, thyme, and 3⁄4 cup whole hazelnuts. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes for the flavors to combine. Remove thyme sprigs, then transfer to a blender and blend until smooth. Fold in the cheese. Season with salt and pepper and add a little lemon juice, if needed.

Step 4/4

Place the leeks in a large oval cast-iron roasting pan and cover with the cream mixture. Sprinkle the panko over the top and bake for 30 to 40 minutes, until golden brown and bubbly. Chop the remaining hazelnuts then sprinkle over gratin along with chives and serve.