Creamy and Delicious: Mary Berry’s Potato Gratin Recipe
Mary Berry’s classic potato gratin is a comforting side dish that has endured for over 25 years. It combines waxy potatoes, double cream, and melted butter for a rich flavour. This indulgent recipe pairs well with various main courses.
Each serving of this delightful dish contains 320 calories. It provides 22g of fat, 28g of carbohydrates, and 7g of protein. Mary Berry’s potato gratin is perfect for family gatherings or cosy dinners at home.
Serve it alongside a roast dinner for a special treat. Or enjoy it as a hearty main course on a chilly evening. Either way, this creamy potato gratin is sure to satisfy.
The History Behind Mary Berry’s Classic Potato Side Dish
Mary Berry, the beloved British culinary icon, has delighted home cooks for over 25 years with her exceptional classic potato dish. Her irresistible potato gratin has become a staple in her culinary repertoire. It showcases her commitment to creating simple, yet flavourful dishes that have endured.
Mary Berry’s 25-Year Legacy with This Recipe
The potato gratin recipe has been a constant in Mary Berry’s cookbooks and television appearances. It reflects its enduring popularity and the chef’s lasting legacy. This classic potato side dish remains a firm favourite among her many fans.
Why This Recipe Has Stood the Test of Time
The longevity of Mary Berry’s potato gratin recipe stems from its versatility and delicious flavour. As a classic potato dish, it pairs well with various main courses, from chops to fish.
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Its simple preparation and use of common ingredients contribute to its lasting appeal. Home cooks can easily recreate this timeless recipe in their own kitchens.
“This dish is a real family favourite and has been for over 25 years. It’s simple to prepare, yet the flavours are truly delicious.”
– Mary Berry, renowned British chef and author
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Potato Gratin
Mary Berry’s potato gratin is a comforting side dish with creamy, indulgent flavours. It requires just a few key ingredients to achieve its delectable taste and texture.
Waxy potatoes, like the Désirée variety, form the base of this recipe. They maintain their shape during baking, creating beautiful layers. For six people, use 900g (2lb) of potatoes.
Season the potatoes with 1 teaspoon of salt and plenty of freshly ground black pepper. Add 45g (1 1/2 oz) of melted butter and 150ml (5 fl oz) of single cream for a 6-person gratin.
The baking dish is crucial too. Use a 1 litre (1 3/4 pint) shallow ovenproof dish for six servings. With these ingredients, you’re set to create a perfect potato gratin.
| Ingredient | 6-Person Serving | 12-Person Serving |
|---|---|---|
| Waxy Potatoes (e.g. Désirée) | 900g (2lb) | 1.8kg (4lb) |
| Salt | 1 tsp | 1 tsp |
| Melted Butter | 45g (1 1/2 oz) | 75g (2 1/2 oz) |
| Single Cream | 150ml (5 fl oz) | 300ml (10 fl oz) |
| Baking Dish | 1 litre (1 3/4 pint) shallow ovenproof dish | 2 litre (3 1/2 pint) shallow ovenproof dish |
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Mary Berry’s potato gratin is a tasty dish that shows off her cooking skills. The perfect gratin needs careful potato prep, smart layering, and rich cream and butter.
Preparing and Boiling the Potatoes
Choose medium-sized potatoes and boil them with skins on in salted water. Cook for 10-12 minutes until just tender. Drain and cool the potatoes.
Once cooled, peel the potatoes and grate them using a coarse grater.
Layering and Seasoning Techniques
- Generously butter a deep baking dish or gratin dish.
- Arrange a layer of the grated potatoes in the dish, seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Repeat the layering process, adding more seasoning between each layer, until all the potatoes are used up.
Adding the Cream and Butter
Melt the butter in a saucepan. Slowly pour it over the layered potatoes. Be careful not to press down on the layers.
Next, gently pour the cream over the top. Again, don’t press down. This keeps the texture light and fluffy.
The dish is now ready for baking. It will soon become a golden-crusted masterpiece that will amaze your taste buds.
Mary Berry Potato Gratin Recipe
Mary Berry’s potato gratin is a beloved British dish. It’s creamy, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. This versatile recipe has been popular for over 25 years.
Start by preheating your oven to 220°C (200°C fan/400°F/Gas 7). Boil the potatoes until tender, then let them cool. Peel and grate the cooled potatoes into a buttered baking dish.
Layer the grated potatoes, seasoning each layer with salt and pepper. Melt butter and pour it evenly over the layers. Add single cream on top, covering the entire surface.
For six people, use 150ml of cream. For twelve people, use 300ml of cream.
- Preheat oven to 220°C (200°C fan/400°F/Gas 7).
- Boil potatoes until tender, then cool, peel, and grate into a buttered baking dish.
- Season the layered potatoes with salt and pepper.
- Melt the butter and pour it evenly over the potatoes.
- Pour the single cream (150ml for 6 people, 300ml for 12 people) over the top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes (40 minutes for 12 servings) until the top is crisp and golden brown.
For Aga ovens, use the second set of runners in the roasting oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes (35 minutes for 12 servings).
| Serving Size | Potatoes | Cream | Bake Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 people | 900g (2lb) | 150ml (5fl oz) | 20-25 minutes |
| 12 people | 1.8kg (4lb) | 300ml (10fl oz) | 40 minutes |
This potato gratin is a true classic. It’s creamy and golden-brown, perfect with roast beef, grilled chicken, or baked fish.
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Golden Crust
A golden crust is crucial for the ultimate potato gratin. Mary Berry, the British cooking legend, has mastered this art. Her tips will help you create a crispy crust with a creamy interior.
Choosing the Right Baking Dish
The secret to a golden crust starts with the baking dish. Mary recommends a wide, shallow ovenproof dish. This maximises surface area, allowing potatoes to brown evenly.
A wide dish ensures a crispy exterior while maintaining a soft centre. It’s a simple trick that makes a big difference.
Temperature and Timing Secrets
Precision is key for the perfect potato gratin. Preheat your oven to 220°C (200°C fan/400°F/Gas 7). This high temperature kickstarts the browning process.
For a 6-serving gratin, bake for 20-25 minutes. A 12-serving portion needs about 40 minutes. Don’t press down on the grated potatoes.
Ensure even distribution of melted butter and cream for consistent browning. This helps maintain a light, fluffy texture.
These baking tips from Mary Berry will elevate your potato gratin. Enjoy the crispy crust and creamy interior for a truly delightful meal.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Mary Berry’s creamy potato gratin is a versatile side dish. It pairs well with chops, grilled meat, or fish. This rich gratin enhances the main dish without overpowering it.
The dish’s simplicity suits both casual family meals and formal dinners. Its creamy texture and comforting flavour make it a crowd-pleaser. It can elevate any potato gratin pairings into a memorable meal.
Suggested Pairings
- Grilled or pan-seared chicken breasts
- Roasted pork chops or tenderloin
- Seared or baked salmon fillets
- Roast beef or lamb dishes
- Sautéed mushrooms or caramelised onions
The creamy nature of Mary Berry’s potato gratin complements these main courses well. It creates a harmonious and satisfying meal. Its versatility makes it ideal for various potato gratin pairings.
“The potato gratin’s simplicity allows it to enhance rather than overpower the main dish, making it a reliable and crowd-pleasing side.”
Variations and Adaptations for Different Occasions
Mary Berry’s classic potato gratin recipe is a versatile delight. It’s perfect for both large gatherings and intimate dinners. You can easily adjust the recipe to suit your needs.
Scaling the Recipe for Larger Groups
Catering for a crowd? Simply double the ingredients. Use 1.8kg of potatoes, 75g of butter, and 300ml of double cream. Bake in a 2-litre dish for about 40 minutes.
This larger version maintains the creamy texture and golden crust. Your guests will savour every bite of this crowd-pleasing dish.
Aga Oven Instructions
Aga oven owners can enjoy this gratin too. Bake on the second set of runners in the roasting oven. It takes 20-25 minutes for a standard portion.
For a 12-serving portion, bake for 35 minutes. The Aga’s even heat ensures a perfectly cooked gratin every time.
This recipe adapts to various cooking methods and occasions. It’s a classic side dish that shines at any gathering, big or small.
| Ingredient | Standard Recipe | Larger Batch |
|---|---|---|
| Potatoes | 800g thinly sliced | 1.8kg thinly sliced |
| Onions | 2 medium thinly sliced | 4 medium thinly sliced |
| Double Cream | 300ml | 600ml |
| Cheddar Cheese | 100g grated | 200g grated |
| Butter | 25g | 50g |
| Fresh Thyme | 1 tbsp chopped | 2 tbsp chopped |
Conclusion
Mary Berry’s potato gratin recipe has been a beloved side dish for over 25 years. Its simplicity and delicious taste have made it a kitchen staple. This potato gratin recipe continues to inspire, showcasing Mary Berry’s expertise in comforting dishes.
The dish’s popularity stems from its adaptability to various occasions and dietary needs. It can be easily scaled and modified with different ingredients. This versatility has ensured its longevity as a satisfying side dish.
Mary Berry’s potato gratin recipe shows her culinary mastery. It highlights the enduring appeal of comforting, flavourful dishes. This timeless recipe solidifies Mary Berry’s status as a British cuisine icon.
Her passion for creating delicious, heartwarming meals continues to inspire home cooks. As new generations discover this recipe, Mary Berry’s legacy in the culinary world grows stronger.
FAQ
What are the key ingredients in Mary Berry’s potato gratin recipe?
Mary Berry’s potato gratin calls for 900g waxy potatoes, salt, pepper, 45g melted butter, and 150ml single cream. These ingredients create a delicious and comforting dish.
How long has Mary Berry been making this potato gratin recipe?
Mary Berry has been cooking this potato gratin for over 25 years. It’s become a trusted favourite in her kitchen.
What makes this potato gratin recipe so popular?
This potato gratin is loved for its simplicity and fantastic flavour. It’s a versatile side dish that complements many main courses.
How should the potatoes be prepared for this recipe?
Boil the potatoes until just tender, then cool and peel them. Grate the potatoes into a buttered dish and season with salt and pepper.
What is the recommended baking time and temperature for Mary Berry’s potato gratin?
Bake the gratin at 220°C (200°C fan/400°F/Gas 7) for 20-25 minutes. For 12 servings, bake for 40 minutes until crisp and golden brown.
What type of baking dish is best for this recipe?
Use a wide, shallow ovenproof dish for this recipe. This helps create a crispy golden crust on the potato gratin.
How can the recipe be adapted for larger groups?
For 12 servings, double the ingredients to 1.8kg potatoes, 75g butter, and 300ml cream. Use a 2 litre dish and bake for 40 minutes.
How should Aga oven users bake this potato gratin?
Aga oven users should place the dish on the second set of runners. Bake in the roasting oven for 20-25 minutes, or 35 minutes for 12 servings.
