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Gratin Dauphinois

The Quirky Foodster Team

(0)
25 minutes
Prep
90 minutes
Cook

Ingredients

  • 1 kg (2.2 lb) Waxy potatoes, peeled and very thinly sliced
  • 500 ml (2 cups) Heavy cream
  • 250 ml (1 cup) Whole milk
  • 2 garlic cloves, halved
  • 1/4 tsp grated nutmeg
  • 30 g (2 tbsp) Unsalted butter, for the dish
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Method

  1. Preheat oven to 160°C (320°F). Rub the gratin dish generously with the cut garlic cloves, then butter it.
  2. Warm cream and milk together in a saucepan with the remaining garlic and nutmeg; do not boil.
  3. Layer the thinly sliced potatoes in the dish, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper between layers.
  4. Pour the warm cream mixture evenly over the potatoes until just covered.
  5. Bake for 1.5 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
  6. Rest 10 minutes before serving to allow the cream to set slightly.

Introduction: From the Dauphiné region in southeastern France, this potato gratin is defined by thin potato slices baked slowly in cream and garlic — notably without cheese in its most traditional form, distinguishing it from similar potato bakes elsewhere in France.

Cultural Background: From the Dauphiné region in southeastern France, this potato gratin is defined by thin potato slices baked slowly in cream and garlic — notably without cheese in its most traditional form, distinguishing it from similar potato bakes elsewhere in France.

Tips: Slice the potatoes as thinly and evenly as possible — a mandoline gives the best, most consistent result.

Variations: Some regional versions add a light scattering of Gruyère on top, though this is not part of the classic Dauphiné recipe. Already vegetarian. Use full-fat plant cream and plant milk with extra garlic and nutmeg for depth, and plant-based butter for the dish.

Storage: Refrigerate up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat covered in a 160°C (320°F) oven for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs:

Q: Is cheese traditional in gratin dauphinois?

A: No — the classic Dauphiné version relies purely on cream and garlic, without cheese, unlike many international adaptations.