Endives with ham are one of those classic French dishes reminiscent of family meals or cozy bistros. Native to northern France and Belgium, where they are called chicons, endives are often associated with a slightly bitter taste. However, when wrapped in a slice of ham and topped with a creamy béchamel sauce, they become irresistibly tender and flavorful. A true comfort food that has been passed down through the generations!
Besides being delicious, this gratin is a great way to enjoy endives, a seasonal vegetable often overlooked due to their bitterness. Fortunately, there are tricks to reduce this bitterness, such as boiling them in water with a squeeze of lemon. Once well drained, the endives transform into a mild and balanced dish, enhanced by the richness of the melted cheese. It’s also a simple recipe, requiring few ingredients and preparing quickly, perfect for a hassle-free dinner.
The béchamel sauce plays a key role here. It adds a velvety texture and a slightly milky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the flavor of the ham and cheese gratin. For an even more indulgent touch, I like to add a little creamy cream cheese spread, which makes it even creamier. And for those who prefer a more pronounced flavor, a hint of nutmeg and a good grated cheese like Gruyère or Parmesan enhance the dish.
This dish is best enjoyed piping hot, with a beautiful golden crust that cracks under the fork. It’s perfect on its own, but can also be served with a green salad for a fresh and light meal. And if you’re looking for a meal idea to prepare in advance, the endives with ham can be assembled in advance and simply reheated when it’s time to eat. A real time-saver for busy evenings!
So, if you’re craving a family-friendly dish that’s both simple and delicious, this recipe is for you. Whether you’re nostalgic for childhood meals or simply curious to rediscover this classic, you won’t be disappointed. Prepare your endives, get out your cheese, and indulge in this generous and melt-in-the-mouth gratin. Enjoy! 😊
🛒 Ingredients (serves 6)
6 endives
6 slices of Paris ham (good quality)
60 cl of fresh whole milk
50 g of butter
40 g of cornstarch (or flour for a classic version)
1 large tablespoon of cream cheese spread (optional)
1 large pinch of grated nutmeg
Grated Gruyère cheese (or Parmesan, Grana Padano, etc.)
Salt and pepper
🔪 Preparation
1️⃣ Cooking the endives
Remove the outer leaves from the endives if necessary and trim the base slightly.
Cook them in a large pot of boiling salted water for 20 minutes at a simmer.
Drain thoroughly and gently squeeze out excess water.
💡 Tip: Add a little lemon juice to the water to prevent them from browning.
2️⃣ Preparing the Béchamel Sauce
In a saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
With flour: Add the flour and mix until a light golden roux is obtained.
With cornstarch: Dissolve it in 10 cl of cold milk before adding it to the melted butter.
Gradually pour in the milk while whisking and let it thicken over medium heat for 5 to 10 minutes.
Add the nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
Off the heat, stir in the cream cheese spread (optional) for extra creaminess.
3️⃣ Assembling the Gratin
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Preheat the oven to 180°C (fan-assisted).
Pour 1/3 of the béchamel sauce into the bottom of a gratin dish.
Wrap each endive in a slice of ham and place them in the dish.
Top with the remaining béchamel sauce and sprinkle generously with grated cheese.
4️⃣ Cooking and Serving
Bake for 20 minutes, until the top is nicely browned.
Serve warm, with a green salad for extra freshness.
⭐ Tips & Variations
Lighter version: Steam the endives instead of boiling them to preserve their nutrients.
Even more indulgent: Add a little cream to the béchamel sauce or sprinkle with grilled bacon before baking.
Make-ahead: This dish can be prepared several hours in advance and reheated in the oven, adding a little milk to prevent it from drying out.
Cooking alternative: Some prefer to sauté the endives in a little butter instead of boiling them. It’s not only tastier, but also richer!
❤️ Conclusion
A warm and comforting dish, perfect for winter evenings or a family meal. The combination of melt-in-the-mouth endive, ham, and béchamel sauce is a pure delight! So, get cooking and enjoy! 😊
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