[Vegan Potatoes au Gratin]

Ingredients and Weight:

• Russet potatoes: 2 lbs (about 4-5 medium potatoes)
• Vegan butter: 1/2 cup
• All-purpose flour: 1/4 cup
• Unsweetened plant-based milk: 3 cups
• Vegan cream cheese: 1 cup
• Vegetable broth: 1 cup
• Dijon mustard: 2 tbsp
• Nutmeg: 1/2 tsp
• Garlic powder: 1/2 tsp
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Breadcrumbs (optional): 1/4 cup
• Vegan Parmesan (optional): 1/4 cup

Preparation Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

1 hour

Difficulty Level:

2 (Easy)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Peel and thinly slice the potatoes.
3. In a large saucepan, melt vegan butter and whisk in flour. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually whisk in plant-based milk until smooth.
5. Add vegetable broth, vegan cream cheese, Dijon mustard, nutmeg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
6. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
7. Layer half of the potato slices in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
8. Pour half of the sauce over the potatoes.
9. Repeat layers.
10. Sprinkle with breadcrumbs and vegan Parmesan, if desired.
11. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and golden brown.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 250 kcal per serving
• Fat: 10g
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 35g

Dish Characteristics:

• Creamy and flavorful
• Rich and decadent
• Can be enjoyed as a side dish or a main course

User Comments:

• "This dish was absolutely delicious! It was hard to believe it was vegan."
• "The potatoes were perfectly cooked and the sauce was so flavorful."
• "I loved the addition of breadcrumbs for a crispy topping."
• "This is a great recipe for a special occasion or a cozy dinner."
• "I will definitely be making this again!"

Special Precautions and Tips:

• If you are using fresh breadcrumbs, toast them in a skillet until golden brown for a nuttier flavor.
• For a richer flavor, use a mixture of plant-based milks, such as almond milk and cashew milk.
• If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash more plant-based milk until desired consistency is reached.
• Let the dish stand for 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to develop and the potatoes to set.