Ingredients

1 garlic clove , cut in half
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 lb leek , white and light green parts only , cut in half lengthwise , sliced and rinsed of sand
salt & freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon cumin seed ( lightly toasted and crushed in a mortar and pestle or a spice mill )
2 lbs russet potatoes or 2 lbs yukon gold potatoes , peeled if using russets , scrubbed if using Yukon golds , and sliced 1/4 inch thick
3 ounces gruyere cheese , grated
2 1/3 cups low-fat milk
Potato and Leek Gratin with Cumin is a French classic that has stood the test of time. It's a heartwarming dish that can be served as a side or a main course, depending on the occasion. The gratin is typically made with thinly sliced potatoes, creamy Gruyere cheese, and leeks that are sautéed to perfection. The cumin seeds are an unexpected addition that gives the dish a savory and spicy edge. This recipe is easy to follow and yields a dish that is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Instructions

1.Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
2.Rub the cut side of the garlic clove on the inside of a 10-inch gratin dish. Brush the dish with olive oil to coat.
3.Heat the olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add the leeks and a pinch of salt and cook, stirring occasionally, until soft and wilted, about 12 minutes.
4.Add the toasted and crushed cumin seeds to the sautéed leeks and cook for 2 minutes longer.
5.Layer the sliced potatoes on top of the sautéed leeks in the gratin dish, slightly overlapping the slices.
6.Mix the grated Gruyere cheese with the low-fat milk in a bowl and pour over the potatoes. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
7.Bake in the oven for 45-50 minutes or until the potatoes are cooked and the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
8.Let the gratin cool for a few minutes before serving, enjoy!

PROS

Potato and Leek Gratin with Cumin is a delicious and comforting side dish that pairs well with roast chicken, beef, or meat-free mains.

The cumin adds a subtle depth of flavor to the dish and elevates it from a regular potato gratin.

It’s a crowd-pleaser that is perfect for dinner parties or holiday gatherings.

CONS

This gratin dish is high in calories and fat due to the cheese and low-fat milk used in the recipe.

It’s not suitable for those who have lactose intolerance or are sensitive to dairy products.

Also, potatoes, when consumed in large amounts, can increase blood sugar levels.

Therefore, people with diabetes should consume this dish in moderation or avoid it altogether.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Despite its high calorie and fat content, this dish offers some health benefits.
Leeks are packed with vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin K, which is essential for bone health and blood clotting.
Potatoes are an excellent source of potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and muscle function.
The cumin seeds, in addition to adding flavor, are rich in antioxidants that may help lower inflammation and promote digestion.

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