Pumpkin Gruyère Gratin with Thyme

Ingredients for Pumpkin Gruyère Gratin with Thyme

• 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil

• 1 teaspoon butter

• 1 medium onion, halved and sliced

• One 1.6kg sugar pumpkin, kabocha, or butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed (about 9 cups)

• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, stems reserved

• 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided

• 1/2 teaspoons freshly ground pepper

• 180ml double cream

• 2 garlic cloves, very thinly sliced

• Pinch cayenne pepper

• Freshly grated nutmeg

• 2 teaspoons cornflour

• 100g Gruyère cheese, grated (1 heaping cup)

• 35g Japanese-style breadcrumbs (panko)

Preheat oven to 218°C. In a medium skillet over medium heat, heat the oil and butter. Add the onion and 1/2 teaspoons salt and cook until softened and starting to brown, 8 to 10 minutes, tossing occasionally. Transfer to a 3-quart gratin dish and add pumpkin, thyme leaves, and 1/2 teaspoons salt, and pepper and toss to combine. Roast until squash is soft, tossing halfway through, about 45 minutes.

Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, combine cream, reserved thyme stems, garlic, remaining 1/2 teaspoons salt, cayenne, and nutmeg. Bring to a simmer, whisk in cornflour, and cook for 1 minute. Turn off heat, cover, and let steep about 30 minutes.

Once squash is tender, remove thyme stems from cream mixture and pour cream over squash. Sprinkle with cheese and then breadcrumbs. Return to oven and cook until cream is bubbling, 5 to 7 minutes. Grill until top is golden brown, 2 to 3 minutes. Serve immediately.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.