Spinach Gratin

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F or 180 degrees C.
2. 2
   Put the spinach into a large pan of salted water and boil just until wilted.
3. 3
   Drain, splash with cold water and spread out in a colander to drain and cool thoroughly.
4. 4
   Meanwhile, make a thick white sauce by melting 25g of the butter in a pan.
5. 5
   Stir in the flour and then add the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps as the milk comes to a boil.
6. 6
   Reduce the heat, season generously with salt, pepper and nutmeg, and leave to simmer gently for five minutes.
7. 7
   Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the creme fraiche.
8. 8
   Add the eggs, beating one at a time.
9. 9
   Once the spinach is cool, squeeze it to remove as much water as possible.
10. 10
    Chop it a few times and stir it into the sauce.
11. 11
    Tip the mixture into a baking dish.
12. 12
    Smooth the surface and sprinkle with the breadcrumbs.
13. 13
    Dot with the remaining butter.
14. 14
    Bake for 30 minutes, until puffed and risen and the top has an even crust.
15. 15
    Serve immediately.