Time to revisit mirlitons. Here in Arkansas, they call them chayote squash. I get strange looks when I say mirliton.
6 mirlitons (8to 10 ounces each), peeled, halved lengthwise, and seeded
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
8 ounces thick-cut bacon, chopped
3/4 cup chopped yellow onion
5 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk
4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/8 teaspoon cayneen pepper
4 ounces Gouda cheese, shredded
2 ounces cream cheese. softened
2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme, divided
2 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano, divided
1 cup pank (Japanese breadcrumbs)
2 tablespoons butter, melted
In a large Dutch oven, bring mirlitons and enough water to cover to a boil over medium-high heat; cook until fork tender, about 25 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, carefully remove mirlitons, and place in a large bowl. Using a potato masher or an immersion blender, mash or blend mirlitons until mostly smooth, eaving larger pieces. Strain through a small fine-mesh sieve.
Preheat oven to 350℉. Spray 6 (1-cup) ramekins with cooking spray.
In a large skillet, melt butter with oil over medium heat. Add bacon, snd cook until crisp, about 20 minutes. Remove bacon using a slotted spoon and let drain on paper towels, reserving 3 tablespoons drippings in skillet.
Add onion and garlic to skillet, and cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until just tender, about 2 minutes. Add flour, and cook, stirring constantly, for 3 minutes. Whisk in milk, salt, and peppers, and cook, stirring constantly, until thick and boiling, about 15 minutes. Remove from heat; stir in cheeses, 1 tablespoon thyme, and 1 tablespoon oregano. Add mirliton and bacon, stirring until well combined. Pour mixture into prepared ramekins.
In a small bowl, combine bread crumbs, melted butter, remaining 1 tablespoon thyme, and remaining 1 tablespoon oregano. Divide mixture among ramekins.
Bake until topping is golden brown and filling is bubbly, about 17 minutes. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Enjoy!!!
Creole & Cajun Comfort Food is now available online.
Good Cooking, Good Eating and Good Living!!!
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