Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 wheel of Bandel cheese (about 8 oz)
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Baking dish
- Oven
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the Bandel cheese wheel in half horizontally, creating two thinner rounds.
3. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic, chopped thyme, chopped rosemary, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread the garlic and herb mixture evenly over the top of the cheese rounds.
5. Place the cheese rounds in a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 375°F
Serving size:
- This recipe serves 4 people as an appetizer.
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 16g
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Bandel cheese can be substituted with any soft, meltable cheese such as brie or camembert.
- Thyme and rosemary can be substituted with any fresh or dried herbs of your choice.
Variations:
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives to the garlic and herb mixture for added flavor.
- Top the baked cheese with a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze for a sweet and savory twist.
Tips and tricks:
- Serve the baked cheese with crusty bread or crackers for dipping.
- Make sure to let the cheese cool for a few minutes before serving to avoid burning your mouth.
- If the cheese is not melted enough after 15-20 minutes, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover baked cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat, place the leftover baked cheese in a baking dish and bake at 375°F for 5-10 minutes, until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the baked cheese on a wooden board or platter with fresh herbs and crackers for a rustic presentation.
Garnishes:
- Garnish with additional fresh herbs or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added color and flavor.
Pairings:
- Serve with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Suggested side dishes:
- Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese is not melting evenly, try cutting it into smaller pieces before baking.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to use clean hands and utensils when handling the cheese and herbs to avoid contamination.
Food history:
- Bandel cheese is a soft, creamy cheese that originated in West Bengal, India.
Flavor profiles:
- This baked cheese has a rich, creamy flavor with a savory garlic and herb topping.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer or as a main course with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
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Region: Indian