GRATIN DAUPHINOIS (CHEESE / CREAM POTATOES)

Steps:

• Heat the oven to 325 degrees.
• Peel the potatoes, wipe clean with a damp cloth and cut them into thin slices.
• Do not wash or soak them in water as this would remove the starch essential to the correct consistency of the dish.
• Pour the milk into a large saucepan, season with salt, freshly ground pepper and nutmeg to taste and add the butter cut into small pieces.
• Place over a medium heat, beat with a birch (wire) whisk and bring slowly to boiling point, add the potatoes and the cream gradually, reduce the heat and simmer very slowly for 10 minutes, stirring frequently.
• Rub a large gratin dish with the cut clove of garlic, butter it generously and pour in the potato mixture.
• Scatter the cheese on top and bake very slowly for 1 1/2 hours until a crisp brown crust has formed.
• Serve immediately.