Ingredients and Weight:
- 800g fresh broccoli, broken into florets
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk or vegetable stock
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Preparation Time:
- Preparation: 20 minutes
- Cooking: 30 minutes
- Total: 50 minutes
Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Boil the broccoli in salted water for 5 minutes, then drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter and add the flour to make a roux (thickening agent).
- Slowly pour in the milk or vegetable stock while stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
- Add the cheese and season with salt and pepper. Stir until the sauce is smooth and thickened.
- In a baking dish, arrange the cooked broccoli florets and pour the sauce over them.
- If desired, sprinkle with breadcrumbs and bake for 15-20 minutes or until bubbling and golden on top.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approx. 400 per serving (based on using 1/4 of the total recipe)
- Fat: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 12g
- Fiber: 5g
(Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on specific ingredients used.)
Dish Characteristics:
- A rich and creamy dish with a slightly crunchy topping.
- The combination of broccoli and cheese sauce provides a balance of flavors and textures.
- This dish is perfect for those who enjoy vegetables in a savory context.
User Comments:
- "The broccoli was cooked to perfection, not too soft and not too hard." - John Doe
- "The cheese sauce was so creamy and delicious, paired perfectly with the broccoli." - Jane Smith
- "I added a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a kick of heat, it was a great addition!" - Michael Johnson
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Ensure to use fresh broccoli for best results. If using frozen, follow package instructions for thawing time.
- When adding the milk or stock, stir continuously to avoid lumps in the sauce.
- Adjust seasoning according to personal preference, adding more salt or pepper if needed.
