No-Cheese Scalloped Potatoes: A Quick and Tasty Side Dish
Scalloped potatoes are a classic comfort food, gracing tables around the world for centuries. This versatile dish, traditionally made with layers of thinly sliced potatoes, cheese, and a creamy sauce, can be modified and adapted to suit a variety of tastes and dietary preferences. In this article, we’ll explore a delicious take on the traditional scalloped potatoes recipe – No-Cheese Scalloped Potatoes! This quick and tasty side dish uses a flavorful sauce with no cheese, making it suitable for those with lactose intolerance or following a vegan diet.
Ingredients
- 8 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh chives, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a large baking dish.
- In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until they become translucent and fragrant.
- Gradually sprinkle in the flour, stirring constantly to create a roux. Cook for about 1-2 minutes, until the mixture becomes thick and golden brown. Gradually add the vegetable broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally until it thickens.
- Add the almond milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika to the saucepan and stir well. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat.
- Arrange half of the thinly sliced potatoes in the prepared baking dish, overlapping the edges slightly. Pour half of the sauce over the potatoes, spreading evenly. Add a second layer of potatoes and pour the remaining sauce over the top, ensuring that all potatoes are covered by the sauce.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the sauce is bubbly. If desired, garnish with fresh chives before serving.
Now that you have your mouth-watering No-Cheese Scalloped Potatoes recipe, let’s dive into the history and curiosities surrounding this widely loved dish.
History and Curiosities
Scalloped potatoes can be traced back to the early European settlers of America, who brought their potato recipes with them to the New World. The word “scallop” refers to a method of cooking in which ingredients are cooked in a sauce and then baked until tender. This method was used by various European cultures, with the French version known as “gratin.”
One interesting curiosity about scalloped potatoes is the wide variety of adaptations that exist worldwide. For example, in Sweden, a dish called Jansson’s Temptation is made with potatoes, onions, anchovies, and breadcrumbs. In the UK, a similar dish known as Dauphinoise potatoes is made with potatoes and cream, but without the inclusion of cheese.
This No-Cheese Scalloped Potatoes version we’ve shared today is perfect for those who want a delicious and satisfying side dish without the heaviness of traditional scalloped potatoes. Whether you’re catering to a diverse set of dietary needs or simply looking to try something new, this dish offers a flavorful and memorable alternative to its cheesy counterpart. So go ahead and give this tasty spin on a classic dish a try – you might just discover a new favorite!
