Asparagus au Gratin

Scrape the asparagus with care, cut into 1 1/2in lengths, leave out the stalky ends, and cook in boiling water with salt until done.

Place the asparagus in a baking dish, cover with the sauce, made with the flour, 1tbsp butter, cream, broth, and nutmeg, minced ham, grated cheese, and dot with the remaining 1/2tbsp butter.

Brown in moderate oven 177C, gas mark4, 350F, for about 20 minutes.