Pairing the Creamy au Gratin Potatoes with the novel 'The Vanishing Half' by Brit Bennett and a classic French 75 cocktail creates a delightful and sophisticated experience. The rich, cheesy textures of the potatoes complement the complex themes of identity and belonging explored in the book. Meanwhile, the French 75 brings a bubbly and refreshing contrast to the creamy dish, mirroring the novel's elegant storytelling and vibrant character arcs. This pairing promises an evening of indulgence in culinary and literary pleasures.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Prepare the cheese sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly to form a roux. Cook for 2-3 minutes, without letting it brown.
- Add the milk and cream: Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the cheese and seasonings: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and Gruyère cheese until melted and smooth. Add the salt, black pepper, and ground nutmeg, stirring to combine.
- Layer the potatoes: Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in an even layer in the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes, spreading it evenly. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and cheese sauce.
- Top with Parmesan: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the dish.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Serve: Let the au gratin potatoes cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
The Vanishing Half
The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett explores the intricate story of identical twin sisters who choose to live in two very different worlds, one black and one white. A powerful narrative weaving together themes of identity, family, and history, this novel illustrates the complexities of race and the influence of the past.
The Vignes twin sisters will always be identical. Inseparable as children, they ultimately choose to live in two different worlds, one black and one white. An exploration of the American history of passing.
Discussion Questions
- How do the identities that Stella and Desiree assume affect their relationship as sisters?
- Discuss the theme of passing in the novel. How does it impact the characters differently?
- How do the settings of Mallard and Los Angeles contrast with each other, and what do they represent?
- What role does secrecy play in the novel, and how does it affect the different generations?
- Consider the ending of the novel. What do you think happens to the characters beyond the page?
- How does the novel address the theme of motherhood?
- In what ways do the characters' choices shape their identities?
- What impact does the past have on the present lives of the characters?
- Discuss the significance of colorism as portrayed in the book.
- How do you think the characters deal with notions of identity and belonging?
Authors:
Brit Bennett
ISBN: 0525536299
Publisher: National Geographic Books
Published Date: 2021-01-12
French 75
The French 75 is a classic cocktail combining the elegance of gin with the sparkle of champagne. The drink is refreshing and sophisticated, with a delicious blend of flavors perfect for toasting events as special as a book discussion or a delicious side dish.
Ingredients
- 2 oz gin
- 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- Champagne to top
- Lemon twist for garnish
Instructions
- Combine the gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup in a shaker filled with ice.
- Shake well and strain into a champagne flute.
- Top with champagne and garnish with a lemon twist.