Tomato and Spiced Potato Gratin Recipe

**Tomato and Spiced Potato Gratin Recipe: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Dish**

Tomato and Spiced Potato Gratin is a delightful variation of the traditional gratin, offering a burst of flavors with its combination of ripe tomatoes, spiced potatoes, and creamy cheese. This dish is perfect for those looking to add a little spice to their culinary repertoire while still enjoying the comforting qualities of a classic gratin.

**Ingredients:**

– 4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 3 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Gruyère or cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

**Instructions:**

1. **Preheat the Oven:**
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. **Prepare the Spice Mix:**
In a small bowl, combine the ground cumin, smoked paprika, ground coriander, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

3. **Cook the Onions and Garlic:**
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until they become translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Remove from heat.

4. **Layer the Gratin:**
In a greased baking dish, start by layering half of the sliced potatoes at the bottom. Sprinkle half of the spice mix over the potatoes. Add a layer of sliced tomatoes and half of the cooked onions and garlic. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, spice mix, tomatoes, and onion mixture.

5. **Add Cream and Cheese:**
Pour the heavy cream evenly over the layered vegetables. Top with the grated cheese, ensuring it covers the entire surface.

6. **Bake:**
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.

7. **Garnish and Serve:**
Once baked, remove the gratin from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

**Tips for Success:**

– **Uniform Slices:** Ensure that the potato slices are of uniform thickness to promote even cooking.
– **Cheese Variations:** Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or Parmesan, for varied flavors.
– **Spice Level:** Adjust the amount of smoked paprika and cumin to suit your taste preferences, adding more for a spicier dish.

This Tomato and Spiced Potato Gratin is a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or a side dish. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Enjoy this delicious twist on a classic gratin and savor the harmonious blend of spices and fresh ingredients.