Baked > Finnish Baked Raejuustos

Baked Raejuusto with Creamy Cheese Sauce Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 block of Raejuusto cheese (about 8 oz)
- 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup of unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
- 2 cups of whole milk
- 1 cup of grated Gouda cheese
- 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup of sour cream
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste

Special equipment needed:
- Baking dish
- Saucepan
- Whisk

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.

2. Cut the Raejuusto cheese into 1/2-inch slices and place them in a baking dish.

3. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese together. Sprinkle the mixture over the cheese slices.

4. Bake the cheese for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.

5. While the cheese is baking, make the creamy cheese sauce. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.

6. Add the flour to the melted butter and whisk until smooth. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until the mixture turns golden brown.

7. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.

8. Add the Gouda and cheddar cheese to the sauce and stir until melted and smooth.

9. Stir in the sour cream and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

10. Remove the baked cheese from the oven and pour the creamy cheese sauce over the top.

11. Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the sauce is hot and bubbly.

12. Serve hot and enjoy!


Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30-35 minutes
Temperature:
Preheat oven to 375°F.
Serving size:
This recipe serves 4-6 people.

Nutritional information:
Calories: 450
Fat: 32g
Carbohydrates: 19g
Protein: 21g
Sodium: 550mg

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Raejuusto cheese can be substituted with any other mild cheese such as mozzarella or provolone.
- Breadcrumbs can be substituted with crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs.
- Gouda cheese can be substituted with Swiss cheese or Monterey Jack cheese.
- Cheddar cheese can be substituted with Colby Jack cheese or pepper jack cheese.

Variations:
- Add cooked bacon or ham to the cheese sauce for a meatier version.
- Add diced tomatoes or roasted red peppers to the cheese sauce for a pop of color and flavor.
- Top the baked cheese with sliced green onions or chopped chives for added freshness.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to slice the Raejuusto cheese into even slices to ensure even baking.
- Use a whisk to stir the cheese sauce constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
- If the cheese sauce is too thick, add more milk to thin it out.

Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 375°F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
Serve the baked Raejuusto with creamy cheese sauce in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.

Garnishes:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or sliced green onions.

Pairings:
Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Grilled asparagus
- Caesar salad

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese sauce is too thin, add more cheese to thicken it up.
- If the cheese sauce is too thick, add more milk to thin it out.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the cheese to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.

Food history:
Raejuusto cheese is a traditional Finnish cheese that is made from cow's milk. It is known for its mild flavor and squeaky texture.

Flavor profiles:
This dish is rich and creamy with a mild cheese flavor and a crunchy breadcrumb topping.

Serving suggestions:
Serve hot and enjoy as a main dish or appetizer.

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Region: Finnish

Taste: Creamy, Cheesy, Savory, Rich, Nutty