Vegetable Casserole with Cheese and Egg Batter

This vegetable casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the goodness of broccoli, cauliflower, and other fresh ingredients with a rich egg batter and a cheesy topping. It’s a great way to enjoy a variety of vegetables while keeping things light, healthy, and comforting. Perfect for a family meal or a light dinner, this casserole is simple to make and sure to please everyone at the table.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Cuisine: Comfort Food

Ingredients

• Broccoli: 1 piece (approx. 500 grams)

• Cauliflower: 1 piece (approx. 500 grams)

• 1 pepper

• 1-2 tomatoes

• 1 pear

• 3 eggs

• 300 ml milk

• 1 tsp salt

• Pepper (to taste)

• 60 ml vegetable oil

• 130 grams flour

• 100 grams cheese (grated)

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions

1. Prepare the Vegetables
   Cut the broccoli and cauliflower into small florets. Place them in a large baking dish, mixing them together evenly.

2. Prepare the Peppers and Tomatoes
   Cut the pepper and tomatoes into small pieces, then add them to the broccoli and cauliflower mixture in the baking dish.

3. Cook the Onion
   Peel and chop the onion, then fry it in a pan with a little vegetable oil until it becomes golden brown and fragrant. Once cooked, spread the sautéed onion on top of the vegetables.

4. Make the Egg Batter
   In a bowl, whisk together the 3 eggs, 1 teaspoon of salt, and the 300 ml of milk. Mix well until the eggs are fully incorporated.

5. Add Flour and Oil
   Stir in the 130 grams of flour and 60 ml of vegetable oil to the egg mixture. Whisk until smooth and combined.

6. Stuff the Vegetables with the Batter
   Pour the egg batter evenly over the vegetables and onions in the baking dish, making sure to coat everything well.

7. Add the Cheese
   Grate or finely chop the 100 grams of cheese and sprinkle it evenly over the top of the casserole. This will melt beautifully during baking, adding a delicious cheesy layer.

8. Bake the Casserole
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the casserole for 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the vegetables are tender.

9. Serve and Enjoy
   Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This dish can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a light salad or crusty bread.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 280

• Protein: 10 g

• Fat: 18 g

• Carbohydrates: 22 g

• Fiber: 6 g

• Sugar: 5 g

• Sodium: 550 mg

The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe

Vegetable casseroles have been a popular comfort food in many cultures, especially in Europe and North America. They’re an excellent way to use up leftover vegetables while making a filling, nutritious dish. The combination of broccoli and cauliflower is a common pairing, and adding cheese and eggs gives this casserole a creamy texture and rich flavor that makes it even more satisfying.

Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy and light: With fresh vegetables and minimal ingredients, this casserole is packed with nutrients while still being filling.

• Easy to make: This recipe is simple to prepare and doesn’t require much hands-on time.

• Cheesy goodness: The melted cheese on top adds an irresistible richness to the dish.

• Versatile: You can easily adjust the vegetables or seasoning to your preferences.

Health Benefits

• Broccoli and Cauliflower: These vegetables are rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, which help boost immunity and support digestive health.

• Eggs: A great source of protein and essential vitamins, eggs help build muscle and provide energy.

• Cheese: Cheese provides calcium for strong bones and teeth, as well as protein for muscle repair.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a side of roasted potatoes or a simple green salad. It can also be served alongside grilled meats or tofu for a complete meal. You can also drizzle a bit of olive oil or balsamic vinegar over the top for added flavor.

Cooking Tips

• Don’t overcook the vegetables: While roasting, make sure the vegetables are tender but not mushy. You can adjust the cooking time depending on how tender you want them to be.

• Use a variety of cheeses: If you prefer a different cheese, feel free to swap out the mozzarella for cheddar, Gruyère, or Parmesan for a different flavor profile.

• Add herbs: For an extra flavor boost, sprinkle some fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano over the casserole before baking.

Variations to Try

• Add meat: You can add cooked chicken, bacon, or sausage to the casserole for extra protein and flavor.

• Spicy version: Add chili flakes or a diced jalapeño for a spicy kick.

• Vegan version: Use plant-based cheese and substitute the eggs with a flaxseed mixture for a vegan-friendly option.

Conclusion

This vegetable casserole with cheese and egg batter is a delicious and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any meal. Packed with broccoli, cauliflower, and a rich cheesy topping, it’s both comforting and satisfying. Whether you enjoy it on its own or as a side dish, it’s sure to be a hit!

10 Comprehensive FAQ Section

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before and store it in the fridge. Bake it the next day when you’re ready to serve.

2. Can I use other vegetables in this casserole?
   Yes, feel free to add or substitute vegetables like carrots, spinach, or zucchini for a different flavor.

3. Can I use non-dairy milk in this recipe?
   Yes, you can substitute the milk with almond milk, oat milk, or any other non-dairy milk of your choice.

4. Can I freeze this casserole?
   Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

5. Can I add more cheese to the casserole?
   Absolutely! You can use more cheese if you prefer a cheesier casserole, or use a mix of cheeses for a more complex flavor.

6. What other seasonings can I add to the casserole?
   You can add garlic powder, onion powder, or a pinch of nutmeg for extra flavor. Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme also make great additions.

7. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
   Yes, use gluten-free flour or a flour substitute to make the casserole gluten-free.

8. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of the pear?
   Yes, fresh tomatoes will work great in place of the pear, giving the casserole a more savory taste.

9. How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
   The casserole is done when the top is golden brown and bubbly, and the vegetables are tender.

10. Can I serve this casserole with a sauce?
    Yes, it pairs nicely with a drizzle of creamy yogurt sauce, tomato sauce, or even a pesto sauce for added flavor.