Ingredients
Method
Preparation
- Peel and slice the potatoes thinly, so they cook evenly. Set them aside in a bowl of water to prevent browning.
- Peel and grate the carrot using a box grater or food processor. The carrot adds sweetness and color to the dish.
- Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves. These aromatics will enhance the flavor of the béchamel sauce and the vegetables.
- Wash the spinach thoroughly and roughly chop it if the leaves are large.
- In a large pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until they are soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Add the grated carrot and continue to sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the carrot softens.
- Add the chopped spinach to the pan and cook until wilted. Season with a little salt and set the vegetable mixture aside.
- In a medium saucepan, heat the remaining 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the flour and whisk continuously to create a roux. Cook the roux for 2-3 minutes, ensuring it doesn’t brown.
- Gradually add the milk to the roux, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook the sauce, stirring constantly, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Season the béchamel sauce with salt to taste. If you like, you can also add a pinch of nutmeg for extra flavor.
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F).
- Grease the bottom of your baking dish with a little oil to prevent sticking.
- Start by layering the sliced potatoes at the bottom of the dish, followed by a layer of the sautéed vegetable mixture.
- Pour half of the béchamel sauce over the vegetables, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Add another layer of potatoes and then the remaining vegetable mixture.
- Pour the rest of the béchamel sauce over the top, ensuring everything is well coated.
- Sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese over the top.
- Place the assembled dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
