Virtual Recipe Club - Potato Edition

Leek and Potato Gratin

2 1/4 pounds (about 3 large) white and pale green parts of leek, well washed, chopped
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups half-and-half, scalded
1/4 cup grated Parmesan plus 2 tablespoons
1/4 cup grated Gouda plus 2 tablespoons
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard - to taste
Freshly grated nutmeg
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 1/2 pounds (about 3 medium-large) russet (baking) potatoes, peeled, cut into 1-inch cubes

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.

In a saucepan, cook the leeks in 2 tablespoons of the butter over medium heat, stirring, until they are softened. Add the flour and cook the mixture over low heat, stirring for 3 minutes. Add the half-and-half, bring the liquid to a boil, and simmer the mixture, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes. Stir in 1/4 cup each of the Parmesan and Gouda, mustard, nutmeg, and salt and pepper, to taste.

In a separate saucepan combine the potatoes with enough water and salt to cover them by 2-inches, bring the water to a boil, and simmer the potatoes for 1 minute. Drain the potatoes.

Transfer the potatoes to a buttered 1.5-quart baking dish. Spoon the leek mixture over the potatoes, sprinkle it with the remaining cheeses, and dot the top with the remaining butter. Bake the gratin for 40 to 50 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.