Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Special Equipment Needed:
- Large skillet
- Medium bowl
- Whisk
- Rolling pin
- Pastry cutter
- Baking sheet
- Wire rack
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened and lightly browned, about 10 minutes.
2. Add the balsamic vinegar and brown sugar and cook, stirring, until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is caramelized, about 5 minutes. Remove from the heat and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and vegetable oil.
5. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
6. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth.
7. Roll out the dough to a 1/4-inch thickness.
8. Cut the dough into 2-inch circles using a pastry cutter or a drinking glass.
9. Place the circles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
10. Top each circle with a spoonful of the caramelized onion mixture and a sprinkle of bacon.
11. Bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
12. Let cool on a wire rack before serving.
Time:
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Temperature: 375°F
Serving Size: Makes about 24 cenci
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 140
Fat: 9g
Carbohydrates: 11g
Protein: 4g
Substitutions for Ingredients:
- Olive oil can be substituted with vegetable oil.
- Balsamic vinegar can be substituted with red wine vinegar.
- Brown sugar can be substituted with white sugar.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with any other hard cheese.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, to the caramelized onion mixture.
- Use different types of bacon, such as turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon.
- Add herbs, such as thyme or oregano, to the dough for extra flavor.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to cook the onions until they are soft and lightly browned.
- Use a pastry cutter or a drinking glass to cut the dough into circles.
- Let the cenci cool completely before serving.
Storage Instructions:
Cenci can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Cenci can be reheated in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation Ideas:
Cenci can be served on a platter with a garnish of fresh parsley or other herbs.
Garnishes:
Fresh parsley, thyme, oregano, or other herbs.
Pairings:
Cenci pairs well with a salad or roasted vegetables.
Suggested Side Dishes:
Salad, roasted vegetables, or a light soup.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
- If the cenci are not browning, increase the oven temperature to 400°F.
Food Safety Advice:
Make sure to cook the onions until they are soft and lightly browned.
Food History:
Cenci are a traditional Italian snack that originated in the 16th century.
Flavor Profiles:
Cenci have a savory and slightly sweet flavor from the caramelized onions and bacon.
Serving Suggestions:
Cenci can be served as an appetizer or snack.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: Italian