Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 wheel of Caciotta dei Monti della Laga cheese (about 1 pound)
- 2 large onions, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Non-stick skillet
- Cheese grater
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. In a non-stick skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat.
3. Add the sliced onions and cook until they are caramelized, stirring occasionally. This should take about 20-25 minutes.
4. Once the onions are caramelized, add the brown sugar and balsamic vinegar. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the mixture is thick and syrupy.
5. While the onions are cooking, grate the Caciotta dei Monti della Laga cheese.
6. Place the grated cheese in a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Once the cheese is melted, remove it from the oven and top it with the caramelized onions.
8. Serve immediately.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 30-35 minutes
5. Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 350°F
Serving size:
- This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 350 per serving
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 15g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Any type of semi-soft cheese can be substituted for the Caciotta dei Monti della Laga cheese.
- White sugar can be substituted for brown sugar.
- Red wine vinegar can be substituted for balsamic vinegar.
Variations:
- Add chopped fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to the caramelized onions for added flavor.
- Top the melted cheese with sliced prosciutto or cooked bacon for a savory twist.
Tips and tricks:
- Be patient when caramelizing the onions. It takes time, but the end result is worth it.
- Use a non-stick skillet to prevent the onions from sticking to the pan.
- Serve the dish immediately after topping the cheese with the caramelized onions to ensure the cheese stays melted and gooey.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover cheese and onions separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat, place the cheese in a baking dish and bake in the oven at 350°F until melted and bubbly. Top with the caramelized onions and serve immediately.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the melted cheese and caramelized onions in a cast iron skillet for a rustic presentation.
- Garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for added flavor and visual appeal.
Garnishes:
- Fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary
- Balsamic glaze
Pairings:
- Serve with crusty bread or crackers for dipping.
- Pair with a light-bodied red wine, such as Pinot Noir or Beaujolais.
Suggested side dishes:
- Arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette
- Roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or carrots
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese is not melting properly, try increasing the oven temperature or placing the dish under the broiler for a few minutes.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the onions thoroughly to prevent any foodborne illnesses.
Food history:
- Caciotta dei Monti della Laga is a semi-soft cheese made in the central Italian region of Abruzzo.
Flavor profiles:
- The Caciotta dei Monti della Laga cheese has a mild, nutty flavor that pairs well with the sweet and savory caramelized onions.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer or as a main course with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
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Region: Italian