Braised Endive with Ham and Gruyère
Braised Endive with Ham and Gruyère is a flavorful Continental Global Delicacies dish prepared with quality ingredients. To cook the endive, combine the butter, sugar, salt, and 10 1/2 cups water in a large pot.
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Easy Prep ≤ 4 steps · Fast & beginner friendly
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Moderate 5–8 steps · Everyday home cooking
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Expert ≥ 9 steps · Multi-step advanced prep
Ingredients Required
Tap or click any ingredient to check off during cookingStep-by-Step Cooking Method
Follow numbered steps for authentic taste and perfectionTo cook the endive, combine the butter, sugar, salt, and 10 1/2 cups water in a large pot.
Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to maintain a steady simmer.
Add the endive, cover, and cook until very tender, about 45 minutes.
A knife should be able to pierce through with no resistance.
Use a slotted spoon to transfer the endive to paper towels.
Reserve 1 1/4 cups cooking liquid.
When cool enough to handle, squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the endive.
Wrap each endive with slices of ham.
Arrange the endive in a shallow baking dish that holds them snugly; you don't want any space between the endive.
Preheat the oven to 400°F.
To make the béchamel, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat until golden.
Add the flour and cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture smells nutty, about 2 minutes.
Continue whisking and add the milk, then the reserved endive cooking liquid in a slow, steady stream.
Bring the mixture to a boil while whisking.
Continue whisking until thickened, about 5 minutes.
Whisk in the nutmeg and pepper.
Pour the béchamel over the endive and spread to cover them evenly.
Sprinkle the cheese evenly over the top.
Set the dish on a rimmed baking sheet and bake until bubbly and golden brown on top, about 15 minutes.
If you want the top more browned and crusty, broil for a minute or two after baking.
Chef's Secret Tips & Serving Pairings
- Serve hot and fresh as a wholesome non-vegetarian meal.
- Pairs excellently with steamed rice, flatbreads, or fresh salad garnish.