Estonian Chanterelle and Potato Gratin
A comforting and rich gratin featuring thinly sliced potatoes layered with sautéed chanterelle mushrooms, all baked in a creamy sauce infused with garlic and herbs. This dish highlights Estonia's love for forest mushrooms and hearty root vegetables.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1.2 kg Potatoes(Yukon Gold or similar waxy potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced)
- 400 g Chanterelle mushrooms(cleaned and sliced)
- 2 tablespoons Butter
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 tablespoon Fresh thyme(chopped)
- 400 ml Heavy cream
- 200 ml Whole milk
- 1.5 teaspoons Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper(freshly ground, or to taste)
- 0.25 teaspoon Nutmeg(freshly grated)
- 50 g Grated cheese(Gruyère or Emmental, optional for topping)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large ovenproof dish (approx. 9x13 inches).
💡 Tip: Using a mandoline for slicing potatoes ensures even thickness. - 2
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped thyme, sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- 3
Add the sliced chanterelle mushrooms to the skillet. Cook until they release their liquid and it evaporates, and the mushrooms are lightly browned.
- 4
In a separate bowl or jug, whisk together the heavy cream, milk, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
💡 Tip: Warming the cream and milk mixture slightly can help it incorporate better. - 5
Arrange half of the thinly sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Top with the sautéed mushroom mixture.
💡 Tip: Ensure an even layer of mushrooms for consistent flavor. - 6
Layer the remaining sliced potatoes over the mushrooms. Pour the cream mixture evenly over the potatoes, ensuring it seeps down through the layers.
💡 Tip: Gently press down on the potatoes to help them submerge in the liquid. - 7
If using, sprinkle the grated cheese evenly over the top.
- 8
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 45 minutes.
- 9
Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- 10
Let the gratin rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow it to set.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓If chanterelles are not available, other wild mushrooms or even good quality button mushrooms can be used.
- ✓For a stronger garlic flavor, you can roast the garlic cloves before mincing.
- ✓Ensure potatoes are sliced thinly and evenly for consistent cooking.
🔄 Variations
- Add a layer of crispy fried bacon or pancetta between the potato and mushroom layers.
- Incorporate a finely chopped shallot with the garlic and thyme.
- A pinch of dried rosemary can be added to the cream mixture.