Explore a unique twist on Belgian cuisine with this comforting pasta recipe, blending the country's love for endives and quality ham in a creamy sauce. This recipe offers a delightful fusion of flavors, showcasing Belgium's culinary tradition through a pasta lens. It's a less common but authentically local dish that brings a piece of Belgian comfort food to your table.Preparation Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 25 minutes Resting Time: N/A Total Time: 40 minutes Serving: 4Ingredients: - 400g pasta (e.g., penne or fusilli) - 4 Belgian endives, thinly sliced - 200g cooked ham, cut into strips - 1 onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 cup heavy cream - 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese - 2 tablespoons butter - Salt and pepper to taste - Nutmeg, a pinchMethod: - Cook Pasta: - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. - Prepare the Sauce: - In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until translucent. Add the sliced endives and cook until they start to soften, about 5 minutes. - Combine Ingredients: - To the skillet, add the ham strips and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let the sauce thicken slightly, then stir in the grated Gruyère cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. - Finalize: - Toss the cooked pasta with the creamy endive and ham sauce until evenly coated. Adjust seasoning if necessary.Notes: - Belgian endives have a slightly bitter taste that beautifully contrasts with the creamy sauce and savory ham. - This dish can be garnished with extra cheese or fresh herbs like parsley for added flavor and color. - Serve immediately while hot for the best taste experience.Nutritional Information per Serving (Based on USDA Guidelines): - Calories: 650 kcal - Protein: 25g - Carbohydrates: 65g - Fat: 32g - Fiber: 3g - Sodium: 870mg - Sugars: 5g . . . . Click to see recipe. #Recipe #Chef #Foodie










