Aligot recipe: a comforting delight from Aveyron

Aligot is a traditional recipe from the southwest of France, specifically from the Aveyron region in the Massif Central. It is a rustic and comforting dish that mixes mashed potatoes with fresh cheese, creating a creamy and elastic texture. Originally, this dish was prepared by monks for pilgrims walking the Camino de Santiago, and over time, it has become an icon of French rural gastronomy. Its main characteristic is the elasticity of the cheese, which must be "stretched" when served, making it a unique visual and taste experience.

Ingredients (for 4 people):

• 400 g fresh tomme for aligot
• 800 g of potatoes
• 2 cloves of garlic
• 100 g butter
• 200 ml of heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. Cooking the potatoes : Peel the potatoes and cut them into pieces. Boil them in a saucepan with salted water until they are very tender (approximately 20 minutes). Then, drain them and set them aside.
2. Prepare the mash : While the potatoes are still warm, mash them with a potato masher or pass them through a food mill to obtain a smooth texture. Add the crushed garlic cloves for an aromatic touch.
3. Add the butter and cream : Place the mashed potatoes in a saucepan over medium heat and add the butter. Stir until the butter is completely melted and the mashed potatoes are smooth. Then, slowly add the heavy cream, mixing well to achieve a silky texture.
4. Adding the tomme : Reduce the heat to low and start adding the fresh tomme in small portions, stirring constantly. It's important to do this gradually so that the cheese melts evenly into the mash. The secret to aligot is to work the mixture until the cheese forms those characteristic strings and the mash is elastic and shiny.
5. Season with salt and pepper: Adjust the seasoning to taste. Continue stirring until the aligot is perfectly elastic and soft.
6. Serving : Serve the aligot immediately, revealing the strings of cheese as you scoop up a portion with a spoon. This dish is perfect to accompany grilled meats, sausages, or simply enjoy as a comforting main dish.

Enjoy your meal! Aligot is ideal for sharing with friends or family, bringing the tradition and warmth of Aveyron to the table in every spoonful.