Ingredients with Measurements:
- 8 oz. Caciotta degli Elimi cheese
- 6 fresh figs
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1/4 cup water
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Small saucepan
- Cheese grater
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Cut the Caciotta degli Elimi cheese into small cubes and set aside.
3. Cut the figs into quarters and set aside.
4. In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar, honey, and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and let simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture has thickened and reduced by half.
5. While the balsamic reduction is simmering, line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the cheese cubes out evenly on the sheet.
6. Bake the cheese in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove the cheese from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.
8. Arrange the fig quarters on top of the melted cheese.
9. Drizzle the balsamic reduction over the figs and cheese.
10. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
11. Serve immediately.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20-25 minutes
5. Temperature:
Preheat oven to 350°F.
Serving size:
This recipe serves 4 people.
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 250
Total fat: 15g
Saturated fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 45mg
Sodium: 350mg
Total carbohydrates: 20g
Dietary fiber: 2g
Sugars: 17g
Protein: 10g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Caciotta degli Elimi cheese can be substituted with any mild, semi-soft cheese such as fontina or gouda.
- Fresh figs can be substituted with dried figs or other fresh fruits such as pears or apples.
- Honey can be substituted with maple syrup or agave nectar.
Variations:
- Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the cheese before baking for added crunch.
- Use a different type of cheese such as blue cheese or goat cheese.
- Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary for added flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the cheese is evenly spaced on the baking sheet to ensure even melting.
- If the balsamic reduction is too thick, add a splash of water to thin it out.
- Serve this dish as an appetizer or as a dessert.
Storage instructions:
This dish is best served immediately, but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat, place the dish in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Presentation ideas:
Serve this dish on a wooden board or platter for a rustic look. Garnish with fresh herbs or edible flowers.
Garnishes:
Fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary, edible flowers such as pansies or nasturtiums.
Pairings:
Pair this dish with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve this dish with a side of crusty bread or crackers.
Troubleshooting advice:
If the cheese is not melting evenly, try cutting the cubes into smaller pieces.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 2 days.
Food history:
Caciotta degli Elimi is a traditional cheese from the Sicilian region of Italy. It is made from cow's milk and has a mild, slightly tangy flavor.
Flavor profiles:
This dish combines the creamy, slightly salty flavor of the melted cheese with the sweetness of the figs and the tangy, slightly acidic flavor of the balsamic reduction.
Serving suggestions:
Serve this dish as an appetizer or as a dessert.
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Region: Italian