Imagine a dish that perfectly marries the rich flavors of wine and cheese, creating a delightful experience that warms both the heart and the palate. Welcome to the world of Wine and Cheese Strata, a French-inspired comfort food that transforms simple ingredients into a luxurious brunch or dinner masterpiece. With its golden-brown top and creamy interior, this strata is sure to impress your guests and make any meal feel special. Whether you're hosting a weekend gathering or simply treating yourself to something indulgent, this recipe will become a go-to favorite. Ready to elevate your culinary skills? Let’s dive into this deliciously easy recipe that promises to be a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
- 6 slices of bread
- 1 cup grated cheese (e.g., Gruyère)
- 1 cup milk
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup dry white wine
- Salt
- Pepper
- Fresh herbs (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by cutting the bread into 1-inch cubes. Grate the Gruyère cheese if not already grated.
- Butter a 9x13 inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking. Arrange the bread cubes evenly across the bottom of the dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and dry white wine until well combined. Season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Sprinkle the grated Gruyère cheese evenly over the bread cubes in the baking dish.
- Pour the egg and wine mixture slowly and evenly over the bread and cheese, ensuring all bread cubes are moistened.
- Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or ideally overnight, to allow the bread to absorb the liquid.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) about 15 minutes before you plan to bake.
- Remove the strata from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before baking.
- If desired, sprinkle fresh chopped herbs like thyme or parsley on top before baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set and slightly puffy.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the strata to set.
- Slice and serve warm, garnishing with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Bread: Opt for a sturdy bread like sourdough or French baguette, as it holds up better during the soaking process and adds a wonderful texture.
- Let It Soak: For the best flavor and texture, allow your strata to soak overnight in the refrigerator. This gives the bread ample time to absorb the egg and wine mixture.
- Experiment with Cheeses: While Gruyère is a classic choice, feel free to mix in other cheeses like cheddar or fontina for a unique flavor profile.
- Add Veggies: For extra nutrition and flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted peppers to the strata before baking.
- Herb It Up: Fresh herbs can elevate the dish significantly. Try adding thyme, parsley, or chives for a burst of freshness.
- Check for Doneness: The strata should be golden brown on top and slightly puffed in the center when it's done. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.
- Serve Warm: This dish is best enjoyed warm, so be sure to let it rest for about 10 minutes after baking before slicing and serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 220mg
