Casseroles

What is a casserole? A blend of cooked ingredients that are heated together to develop flavor.

Layered Blended 2 Types of Casseroles

Parts of a Casserole Base – main texture & flavor  Meat, poultry, fish, ground beef or cheese Extender - thickens  Bread crumbs, potatoes, rice, grits, grains, dry beans Binder – holds together  Milk, broth, canned soup, eggs or sauce

Nutrients in Casseroles Protein  Meat, fish, eggs, dried beans, cheese Carbohydrates  Rice, pasta Fat  Sauces Vitamins  Vegetables Minerals  Vegetables

PROTEIN Used as the main ingredient.  EX. Meat, fish, eggs, dried beans and cheese.

STARCH/ CARBOHYDRATES Adds substance or body Used as an extender Adds energy through carbs e.g. Pasta and Rice Undercook rice and pasta so they can continue to cook during backing process

VEGETABLES Contrast in color Adds variety in texture Adds nutrition (carbs, vitamins and minerals)

Advantages of making casseroles a. Saves time b. Saves energy c. Easy to prepare d. Complete meal e. Economical f. Large variety g. Make ahead h. Can be Frozen i. Serve in same dish cooked in j. Leftovers k. Little supervision while cooking

Toppings Used for  Color & Contrast  Variety in texture  Protects protein ingredients from heat  Croutons  Crackers  Chips  Cheese

Easier Clean Up? Clean dish as soon as possible Soaking dish in water and soap Sprinkle dish washer detergent in soaking dish If you cannot get the casserole dish clean, put water and baking soda in it. Heat it up in the oven. Cover, turn off heat and let is soak until the next day and try cleaning it again.

Topping too Dark? Cover lightly with tin foil Remove foil last 5-10 minutes of cooking.

Protein Foods 1. Fish Hamburger 2. Eggs chicken 3. Dried beans Starch/carbs/Filler 1. Rice 2. Pasta 3. Lasagna Noodles Extras 1. Spices Vegetables 1. Tomato 2. Green pepper 3. Bean 4. peas Sauces/Binders 1. Tomato Sauce 2. Cream of Chicken 3. Cream of Mushroom 4. Canned soups Toppings 1. Cheese 2. Croutons/Bread 3. Crackers 4. Potato Chips