Vegetable Chicken Gratin Recipe: A Delicious Option for Ramadan Tables

If you're looking for a light yet satisfying dish to brighten up your iftar table on the 22nd day of Ramadan, Vegetable Chicken Gratin is a perfect choice that will delight both your eyes and your taste buds. This recipe combines the richness of vegetables and meat, making it an ideal option for a wholesome iftar meal.

Vegetable Chicken Gratin and Its Place in Turkish Cuisine

Turkish cuisine has historically celebrated the harmony between vegetables and meat, offering dishes that are both nutritious and flavorful. A modern twist on this tradition, Vegetable Chicken Gratin brings elegance and health to Ramadan iftar tables.

Unlike traditional Turkish dishes, vegetable chicken gratin is baked in the oven and enriched with creamy, cheesy sauces. It typically includes carrots, zucchini, broccoli, and mushrooms alongside chicken. This combination provides a protein- and fibre-rich meal. The top layer of cheese and béchamel sauce adds both taste and a delightful crunch.

During Ramadan, iftar meals often feature heavy dishes. However, Vegetable Chicken Gratin stands out for being light yet filling. The vegetables supply essential vitamins and minerals, while the chicken delivers necessary protein. This makes it an ideal choice for the 22nd-day iftar menu.

Benefits of Vegetable Chicken Gratin

• Protein-rich: Chicken helps support muscle health and keeps you full for longer.

• Vitamin and mineral source: Vegetables provide vitamins A, C, and K, as well as potassium and fibre.

• Light and easy to digest: Offers a nourishing meal without weighing you down during Ramadan.

Vegetable Chicken Gratin Recipe

Ingredients

• 500g chicken breast, cut into small cubes

• 1 zucchini, sliced

• 2 carrots, thinly sliced

• 1 cup broccoli, cut into small florets

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, crushed

• 200ml cream

• 1 cup grated cheddar cheese

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Salt, black pepper, paprika

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

For the Béchamel Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 2 tablespoons flour

• 500ml milk

• Salt, black pepper, grated nutmeg

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the vegetables: Wash and slice the zucchini, carrots, and broccoli. Lightly blanch the broccoli.

2. Sauté the chicken: Cook the chicken cubes in olive oil with salt, pepper, and oregano. Add onion and garlic and sauté until fragrant.

3. Add the vegetables: Mix in zucchini, carrots, and broccoli and cook for a few minutes.

4. Make the béchamel sauce: Melt the butter, add the flour and stir. Gradually add milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.

5. Bake: Transfer the chicken and vegetable mixture into a baking dish. Pour over the béchamel sauce and sprinkle grated cheddar cheese on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 25–30 minutes.

This recipe provides an elegant presentation and rich flavour while remaining easy to prepare.

Tips for Perfect Gratin

• Avoid overcooking the vegetables after sautéing to preserve vitamins.

• Add the milk gradually to the béchamel sauce and stir continuously to prevent lumps.

• The cheese topping ensures the gratin has both a creamy and crispy texture.

Yogurt and Cacik: The Importance of Probiotics at Iftar

Pairing Vegetable Chicken Gratin with probiotic-rich yogurt or cacik aids digestion and supports immunity during Ramadan.

Benefits of Probiotics

• Digestive health: Yogurt and cacik help balance gut flora and improve digestion.

• Immune support: The live cultures strengthen the body's defenses, especially during fasting.

• Lightness: Helps prevent bloating and discomfort after heavier meals.

Cacik, made with cucumber, mint, and garlic, is both refreshing and satisfying. It complements creamy dishes like Vegetable Chicken Gratin to create a well-balanced meal.

Recommended Iftar Menu

For the 22nd-day iftar:

• Main course: Vegetable Chicken Gratin

• Side dish: Cacik

• Salad: Seasonal greens with olive oil dressing

• Dessert: Light milk-based desserts or fresh fruit

This menu ensures a balanced and flavourful iftar. It's an ideal choice for those seeking nutritious yet easy-to-prepare meals during Ramadan.

In summary, Vegetable Chicken Gratin is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a Ramadan recipe that is both nutritious and visually appealing. Pairing it with yogurt or cacik boosts probiotic benefits. For the 22nd-day iftar menu, it offers a light yet filling meal that will become a favourite.