Leek And Fennel Au Gratin

Heat oven to 425 degrees F. Grease the sides and bottom of a gratin pan with a tablespoon of butter.

Thinly slice the fennel bulbs on a mandolin or with a very sharp knife. Spread half the fennel on the bottom of prepared gratin pan.

Thoroughly rinse and pat dry the leeks, then very thinly slice the white part of leeks. Spread half of the leeks over the fennel. Sprinkle half of the grated cheese over leeks, then dot with 1 tablespoon of butter. Add grindings of black pepper if desired. Drizzle with 1 1/2 tablespoons half-and-half. Repeat process with remaining ingredients.

Place dish on baking sheet and bake in preheated oven 35 to 45 minutes, until top becomes golden to dark brown.

Remove from oven and let cool 5 minutes before serving.