Lithuanian Potato and Mushroom Casserole (Bulvių ir grybų apkepas)
A hearty and comforting casserole featuring layers of thinly sliced potatoes, sautéed mushrooms, and onions, baked in a creamy sauce. This dish highlights the importance of potatoes and mushrooms in Lithuanian cuisine.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Potatoes(peeled and thinly sliced)
- 500 g Mushrooms(mixed varieties, sliced)
- 2 medium Onions(thinly sliced)
- 50 g Butter
- 250 ml Milk
- 150 ml Heavy cream
- 1 tbsp All-purpose flour
- 1 tsp Salt
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper
- 2 tbsp Fresh dill(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a large casserole dish.
- 2
In a large skillet, melt 25g of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until softened and lightly golden, about 5-7 minutes. Remove onions from skillet and set aside.
- 3
Add the remaining 25g of butter to the same skillet. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until browned and their liquid has evaporated, about 8-10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- 4
In a small saucepan, whisk together the flour, milk, and heavy cream until smooth. Heat gently, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper.
- 5
Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the prepared casserole dish. Top with half of the sautéed onions and mushrooms. Pour over half of the creamy sauce.
- 6
Repeat the layering with the remaining potatoes, onions, mushrooms, and sauce.
- 7
Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- 8
Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
- 9
Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh dill.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, you can add a layer of grated cheese on top before baking.
- ✓Ensure potatoes are sliced thinly and evenly for consistent cooking.
- ✓If you don't have fresh mushrooms, rehydrated dried mushrooms can also be used.
🔄 Variations
- Add cooked chicken or bacon for a more substantial meal.
- Incorporate other root vegetables like carrots or parsnips.
- Use a mix of cheeses for the topping.