Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory P.E.I. Potato Gratin?
It is a traditional Canadian side dish from Prince Edward Island that features shredded potatoes, onions, and carrots baked in a creamy sauce with savory herbs.
What is the origin of this specific recipe?
This recipe originated from a cherished version by Mme. Benoit and has been passed down through generations in Prince Edward Island.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes 4 servings.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C).
How should the potatoes be prepared?
The 2 cups of raw potatoes should be coarsely shredded.
What type of onion preparation is required?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of raw onion that is thinly sliced.
How should the carrots be processed?
You should use 1 cup of raw carrot that is coarsely grated.
What herbs are recommended for seasoning?
The recipe suggests using 1/4 teaspoon of dried savory or marjoram.
How much heavy cream is needed?
The recipe requires 2 tablespoons of fresh heavy cream.
What is the role of butter in this dish?
Butter is used to grease the casserole dish and is also dotted on top of the mixture before baking for added richness.
How much salt and pepper should be added?
Add 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper, or adjust to taste.
What is the first step of the baking process?
The first step is to preheat the oven and butter a medium-sized casserole dish.
How long should the dish bake while covered?
The gratin should bake covered with aluminum foil for 45 minutes.
What happens after the first 45 minutes of baking?
You should remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes to form a golden crust.
How do you know when the gratin is finished cooking?
It is done when the top turns a beautiful golden brown and a crust has formed.
Why should the dish sit before serving?
Allowing it to cool for a few minutes lets the flavors meld together properly.
What are the total calories per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 123 calories.
What is the fat content per serving?
There are 6 grams of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
Each serving contains 17 grams of carbohydrates.
Does this dish provide any protein?
Yes, it provides 1.5 grams of protein per serving.
How much fiber is in the Savory P.E.I. Potato Gratin?
There is 1.25 grams of fiber per serving.
Is this dish considered a main course?
No, it is categorized as a potato side dish.
What type of cuisine does this recipe represent?
It represents Canadian cuisine, specifically from Prince Edward Island.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include potato dish, comfort food, Canadian cuisine, vegetable bake, and old-fashioned recipe.
Can I substitute the heavy cream?
While the recipe calls for heavy cream for richness, you could attempt other creams, though the texture may vary.
What kind of casserole dish is needed?
A medium-sized casserole dish is recommended.
Is the savory herb fresh or dried?
The recipe specifies using dried savory or marjoram.
What is the texture of the finished dish?
It has a creamy texture on the inside with a crispy golden crust on top.
What makes P.E.I. potatoes special in this recipe?
They represent the rich agricultural heritage of Prince Edward Island and provide a specific earthy flavor.
Is this a good dish for family gatherings?
Yes, it is described as a comforting side perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners.