Ina’s Overnight Breakfast Strata: A Crowd-Pleaser

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A Harmonious Blend of Cultures

breakfast strata, a beloved comfort food, is a testament to the beauty of simplicity. Its origins trace back to the American South, where it was often prepared with stale bread, eggs, and milk. However, today, this dish has evolved into a canvas for culinary creativity, inviting a fusion of flavors from around the world.

Ingredients:

Ina Garten’s Breakfast Strata

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Base:

  • 1 loaf stale sourdough bread, cubed
  • 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • Custard:
  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Global Infusion:
  • 1 cup diced pancetta or bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1/2 cup diced chorizo, cooked
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, and parsley)
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
  • 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil, drained and chopped
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • Zest of one lemon

    • Preparation:

    1. Prep the Bread: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread, Gruyère, and cheddar cheese.
    2. Create the Custard: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, melted butter, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
    3. Assemble the Strata: Pour the custard over the bread mixture, stirring gently to combine.
    4. Add Global Flavors: Stir in the pancetta, chorizo, herbs, red onion, sun-dried tomatoes, Dijon mustard, and lemon zest.
    5. Bake to Perfection: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown and set.
    6. Serve and Savor: Let the strata rest for a few minutes before serving.

    Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

    Serving Suggestions:

    A Continental Twist: Serve with a side of buttery croissants and a cup of strong coffee.

  • A Mediterranean Medley: Accompany with a Greek yogurt parfait topped with honey and fresh berries.
  • An Asian Fusion: Pair with a side of stir-fried vegetables and a drizzle of soy sauce.

    • A Culinary Odyssey

    This recipe is a testament to the power of culinary fusion. It draws inspiration from the hearty breakfasts of the American South, the rich flavors of Mediterranean cuisine, and the bold spices of Asian cooking. By blending these diverse influences, we create a dish that is both comforting and exciting, a symphony of flavors that awakens the senses. As we savor each bite, we embark on a culinary odyssey, traveling the world one spoonful at a time.