Creamy Chayote Squash and Chorizo Gratin
Turn humble chayote squash into a flavour bomb! This Creamy Chayote & Chorizo Gratin is Spanish-Mexican comfort food at its finest. Get the recipe!
Recipe Introduction
Fancy something a bit different tonight, eh? ever heard of chayote squash ? honestly, i didn’t either until recently, but oh my gosh!, it's become a new fave! this creamy chayote squash and chorizo gratin is absolute heaven.
From Humble Squash to Star Dish
Okay, so chayote squash , also known as mirliton , isn't exactly a household name in every british kitchen. it's more common in mexican recipes and central america.
It's a mild-tasting squash and a staple during lent or for anyone on a daniel fast . this gratin takes that humble chayote squash and transforms it into something special! it’s not too tricky to make, i'd say medium difficulty.
Plus, it takes about an hour, give or take. this recipe yields 6 servings.
Why You'll Absolutely Love This Gratin
One of the main benefits? it’s packed with vitamin c. seriously! this gratin is perfect for a chilly evening. or, honestly, any excuse is a good excuse! but what really makes this choko recipe special is how the mild squash soaks up all the smoky, spicy flavours of the chorizo.
It’s that savoury and creamy taste that makes it totally unique. think of this as a twist on a squash and potatoes gratin.
Now, let's chat ingredients.
Alright, let's talk about what you'll need for this amazing gratin! think of it like prepping your tools for a masterpiece.
It's all about having the right stuff to hand. get ready to transform that chayote squash !
Creamy Chayote Squash and Chorizo Gratin Recipe Card
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
Ingredients & Equipment
Main Players
First, grab your chayote squash . you'll need 2 medium ones. that's about 1.5 lbs or 680g . feel it! it should be firm and smooth, like a good avocado.
Don't sweat if it's got a few little bumps though. we're going for flavour, not a beauty contest.
Then, 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Plus 1 medium yellow onion. Chop the onion, like you're chopping bad memories, finely. Don't forget 2 minced garlic cloves. Oh my gosh, I love garlic!
Then, 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground cumin. Don't forget to add a little salt and pepper to your taste!
For the chorizo cream sauce, you're looking at 4 ounces (that's 113g ) of mexican chorizo. also grab 1 cup ( 240 ml ) of heavy cream.
Mmm, creamy. then, 1/2 cup ( 57 g ) of shredded monterey jack, and 1/4 cup ( 28g ) of shredded sharp cheddar.
A little bit of cilantro at the end ( 2 tablespoons ). honestly, the cilantro is optional, but it does add a fresh zing.
Seasoning Power-Ups
This isn't just about random spices, you know? the smoked paprika and cumin are key for that smoky, earthy thing that really complements the slight sweetness of the chayote squash .
Think of it as the foundation of your flavour house. i sometimes add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a mexican recipe twist if i'm feeling frisky.
If you're missing smoked paprika, a regular paprika with a tiny drop of liquid smoke can do in a pinch.
But honestly, go get some smoked paprika, you won't regret it!. if you’re on a daniel fast or need something fast recipes , omit the chorizo and cream and sauté with vegetable broth instead!
Essential Tools
Right, kit time! you'll need a large skillet. get a 9x13 inch baking dish. a mandoline is great for thin slices of chayote squash .
A sharp knife will also do. finally, you will need a cheese grater. honestly, that's it! you don't need fancy stuff.
If you don't have a baking dish, a good oven-safe casserole dish will work wonders. no mandoline? just take your time and slice the squash thinly with a knife.
Easy peasy! you know? now you have all the ingredients ready to begin to make these amazing chayote recipes
This dish works wonders with other vegetables such as squash and potatoes .
Alright, let's talk chayote squash ! honestly, before this creamy chayote squash and chorizo gratin, i wasn't that excited about it.
Seemed kinda bland, you know? but, oh my gosh, this recipe totally changed my mind. it's like a warm hug in a dish.
This recipe transforms humble chayote squash into something special. think spanish and mexican recipe fusion!
Creamy Chayote Squash and Chorizo Gratin: Hello Comfort Food!
Ever wonder what to do with that green thing? i've got you covered. this gratin is perfect for a weeknight.
Or fancy enough for a party. i'm gonna show you how to make a seriously amazing chayote squash gratin. it's fast recipes if you pre-chop.
Prep Power: Mise en Place Like a Pro
First things first: the mise en place . it's french for 'everything in its place.' it is a total game-changer in the kitchen.
Peel, halve, and thinly slice 2 medium chayote squash . thin slices are key! get 1 medium yellow onion and 2 cloves garlic ready.
Measure out your spices: 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika and 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin . it makes the cooking easier. for the chorizo sauce, get out your monterey jack and cheddar cheese.
Remember, have fun while doing it.
Step-by-Step to Chayote-ville:
This is the fun part where we make magic with chayote squash .
- Sauté the Onions and Garlic: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet. Sauté the onion until soft. Add garlic, paprika, and cumin, cook until fragrant. Mmm, smells good, right?
- Cook the Squash: Add chayote squash to the pan. Sauté until slightly softened. Season with salt and pepper.
- Brown the Chorizo: Brown 4 ounces Mexican chorizo . Drain the grease. No one likes a greasy gratin.
- Make the Cream Sauce: Pour in 1 cup heavy cream . Simmer until it thickens a bit.
- Layer it Up: Layer squash, chorizo sauce, and cheese in a baking dish. Repeat.
- Bake: Bake at 375° F ( 190° C) for 25- 30 minutes . Golden and bubbly is the goal!
- Cool: Let it rest for 5 mins.
- Serve: Garnish optional.
Pro Tips for Chayote Greatness
Okay, listen up, here are some sneaky tips i've learned. slicing evenly makes all the difference. a mandoline is your friend here.
Don't overcook the chayote squash in the pan. it'll get mushy in the oven. nobody wants that. let it rest after baking.
It'll slice cleaner. also feel free to experiment a little. add some herbs to make the chayote recipes pop even more.
So there you have it – a creamy, dreamy chayote squash gratin that will impress even the pickiest eaters! this isn't just any old squash and potatoes dish, i have tried this recipe when i was in the daniel fast and it worked wonders.
Give this mirliton recipe a go, it is one of the best chayote squash recipes that will surely become your new fave!
Alright, let's dive into some extra bits and bobs about this awesome Chayote Squash and Chorizo Gratin. Honestly, it’s one of those chayote recipes that surprises everyone!
Recipe Notes
Serving Suggestions: Ace Presentation
Right, so you've got this golden, bubbly gratin fresh out of the oven. what next? for a bit of posh nosh, serve individual portions on warmed plates.
A sprinkle of fresh cilantro? chefs kiss! it looks stunning. want to be more casual? a big ol' spoon straight from the dish works too! it also pairs amazingly with simple roast chicken or even as a banging side with grilled halloumi.
Don’t forget drinks, either! a light, crisp white wine like a sauvignon blanc or a cold mexican beer really cuts through the richness.
Or maybe even using it to fill some lovely mexican tacos for a twist, using this mexican recipe !. it tastes amazing with fresh tortillas and your favorite toppings!
Storage Tips: Keep it Fresh!
Leftovers? no worries, this gratin keeps well. let it cool completely, then bung it in an airtight container in the fridge.
It will be good for up to 3 days. for freezing, it's best to portion it out first. it will last for a month or two, but the texture of the chayote squash might change a bit.
Reheating is easy peasy! microwave it 'til piping hot, or pop it back in the oven at 350° f ( 175° c) for about 15- 20 minutes.
Just be careful not to dry it out!.
Variations: Get Creative!
Fancy a choko recipes spin? okay, how about a daniel fast friendly version? easy! ditch the chorizo and cream. use roasted butternut squash instead for sweetness and a vegetable stock reduction for the creamy vibe.
Add a pinch of smoked paprika to mimic the chorizo flavour. you can also use a squash and potatoes recipe blend for an hearty alternative.
A mirliton recipe twist could involve a hint of warming spices in autumn, and using seasonal ingredients. so, instead of fresh cilantro, use some chopped rosemary to add a warm, herbal note to your dish.
Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bite
So, chayote squash , is pretty good for you. i mean, it's low in calories and a decent source of fibre.
The protein from chorizo, and calcium from cheese, all contribute to a balanced meal. you should get around 320 calories, 15g of protein, and 2g of fiber per serving.
Remember though, i am not a nutritionist, so these are just estimates!. this dish can provide a balance of macronutrients (carbs, fats, and proteins), making it a reasonably healthy and satisfying meal choice.
Honestly, this chayote squash and chorizo gratin is such a crowd-pleaser. it is the bomb. give it a go and let me know what you think.
You won't regret it! it's a unique addition to the chayote squash recipes and fast recipes world.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is chayote squash, and what does it taste like?
Chayote squash, also sometimes called mirliton, is a light green, pear-shaped squash. Think of it as the polite Canadian of the squash family - mild and agreeable! On its own, it's quite subtle, but that makes it perfect for soaking up all the delicious flavours in this Creamy Chayote Squash and Chorizo Gratin.
Can I peel the chayote squash ahead of time?
You can, but like a freshly cut apple, chayote squash tends to brown slightly when exposed to air. If you're prepping ahead, peel and slice the chayote squash, then toss it with a squeeze of lemon or lime juice to prevent browning. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and you'll be golden.
I can't find chorizo. What can I use instead of chorizo in this chayote squash recipe?
No worries, mate! If you can't get your hands on chorizo, Italian sausage or even some good quality diced bacon will work a treat. For a vegetarian option, you could use smoked paprika to get the smoky flavour the Chorizo provides.
How do I store leftover Creamy Chayote Squash and Chorizo Gratin?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Fair warning, the texture might be a touch softer after refrigeration, but the flavour will still be fantastic - almost like a proper shepherd's pie after a day or two!
Is chayote squash good for you? What are the nutritional benefits?
Absolutely! Chayote squash is a good source of vitamin C, folate, and fiber, while being relatively low in calories. It's like a secret weapon in your healthy eating arsenal. Considering this recipe does contain cream and cheese, it's more of a comforting indulgence, so enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet – everything in moderation, even moderation!
My Creamy Chayote Squash and Chorizo Gratin is watery. What did I do wrong?
Sometimes chayote squash can release a bit of moisture while cooking. Make sure you sauté the squash long enough to slightly soften it before layering into the gratin. You can also try adding a tablespoon of cornstarch to the cream sauce to help thicken it up. Before layering, also make sure you've drained all the excess grease from the chorizo, it can often lead to excess water in the dish.
