Rustic French Country Feast
Savor the essence of France with this rustic country feast, featuring succulent herb-roasted chicken, velvety potato gratin, and a vibrant ratatouille. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner, each dish embodies rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, celebrating French culinary traditions. Enjoy a hearty bread pudding for dessert to complete your experience.
ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 2 teaspoons rosemary
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 pounds potatoes, thinly sliced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
- 2 zucchinis, diced
- 1 eggplant, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- 4 cups bread, cubed (for pudding)
- 2 cups milk
- 3 eggs
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
steps
- 1.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- 2.
In a bowl, mix olive oil, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture over the chicken and place it in a roasting pan. Roast for about 1.5 hours, until cooked through.
- 3.
Meanwhile, prepare the potato gratin by layering the sliced potatoes in a greased baking dish, pouring cream over each layer, and topping with Gruyère cheese. Bake for 45 minutes or until golden.
- 4.
For the ratatouille, sauté onion and garlic in a pan, then add zucchini, eggplant, and bell pepper. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring in balsamic vinegar and basil at the end.
- 5.
For the bread pudding, whisk milk, eggs, sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl. Combine with bread cubes and let soak for 30 minutes. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40 minutes until set.
- 6.
Serve the roasted chicken alongside the gratin and ratatouille, followed by warm bread pudding for dessert.
