Savory Minced Meat and Spinach Gratin with Mushroom Sauce

Indulge in a mouthwatering dish that perfectly combines the rich flavors of minced meat, fresh spinach, and earthy mushrooms. This savory gratin is not just a feast for the taste buds, but also a delightful experience to prepare. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself to a gourmet meal, this recipe offers a satisfying blend of textures and tastes that will leave everyone craving more.

Ingredients:

  • 1 kg minced meat
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • A handful of fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 200g spinach, washed and chopped
  • 200g mushrooms, sliced
  • 200g grated cheese (your choice of cheese)
  • 3-4 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 2 pickles, finely chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, diced
  • 50g walnuts, chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic (for the sauce), minced
  • Olive oil for cooking

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
    • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced meat, eggs, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, and paprika.
    • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  2. Cook the Spinach and Mushrooms:
    • In a skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat.
    • Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted.
    • In the same skillet, sauté the sliced mushrooms until golden brown. Set aside with the spinach.
  3. Assemble the Gratin:
    • In a baking dish, spread a layer of the meat mixture evenly at the bottom.
    • Top with the cooked spinach and mushrooms.
    • Sprinkle the grated cheese over the vegetables.
  4. Prepare the Sauce:
    • In a small saucepan, combine the soy sauce, tomato paste, mustard, honey, chopped pickles, diced tomatoes, walnuts, and minced garlic.
    • Heat the sauce over low heat, stirring occasionally until well blended and slightly thickened.
  5. Bake the Gratin:
    • Pour the prepared sauce over the top of the cheese layer in the baking dish.
    • Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
    • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
  6. Serve:
    • Once the gratin is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
    • Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Conclusion:

This savory minced meat and spinach gratin with mushroom sauce is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a hearty main course or a comforting side. The combination of tender meat, nutritious spinach, and rich, savory sauce is sure to become a favorite at your dining table. Enjoy the layers of flavor in each bite, and savor the satisfaction of creating a gourmet meal right in your own kitchen.