2.05

casseroles

Did you know? A casserole, from the French for "saucepan", [1] is a large, deep dish used both in the oven and as a serving vessel. The word casserole is also used for the food cooked and served in such a vessel, with the cookware itself called a casserole dish or casserole pan. In British English, this type of dish is frequently also called a bake, coinciding with the cooking technique used to cook casseroles.French [1]ovencookwareBritish Englishcooking technique

Where did casseroles come from? Became popular in the 1950’s when women were joining the workforce and needed quick, nutritious, one dish meals. Green bean casserole was invented in 1955 by the Campbell Soup Company test kitchen under the leadership of Dorcas Reilly.

What kinds of leftovers can be used for one dish meals, like casseroles? Leftover chicken, meat, or vegetables can be combined to make a meal. They can be extended with a starch such as flour, rice, or pasta. Cheap and yummy! Another one-dish meal example - Chili – left over meat, vegetables, and sauces.

What casseroles are good for vegetarians? Remember, VEGETARIAN does not mean VEGAN. Lacto=Milk + Plant Sources Ovo=Eggs + Plant Sources Vegan =ONLY food from plant sources

How can you reduce sodium and fat in casseroles? Sodium: Drain and rinse canned vegetables or use fresh/no salt added varieties. Use fresh spices and herbs in place of salt. Hint – most “spice mixtures” are mainly SALT. Fat: Use skim milk in place of whole fat. Use less butter or margarine. Choose low fat/reduced fat toppings

Toppings can get too brown in the oven so how can we prevent this? Put the toppings on at the end of the cooking process. Shield the toppings with aluminum foil. Move casserole to lower oven rack.

What can be done to minimize cleanup time? Soak the dish. Grease the pan OR…Use a casserole dish liner or aluminum foil. Don’t overbake! Use disposable dish.