Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb. Oscypek cheese, grated
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp. butter
- 1 tbsp. olive oil
- 1 tbsp. brown sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 tsp. dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Special Equipment Needed:
- Large skillet
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Whisk
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and brown sugar, and cook for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, milk, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. In the baking dish, layer half of the grated Oscypek cheese on the bottom.
5. Next, add the caramelized onions on top of the cheese.
6. Pour the cream mixture over the onions and cheese.
7. Layer the remaining grated Oscypek cheese on top.
8. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Let the gratin cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 350
Fat: 28g
Carbohydrates: 9g
Protein: 16g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Oscypek cheese can be substituted with any hard, smoked cheese such as cheddar or gouda.
- Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half or whole milk.
- Brown sugar can be substituted with honey or maple syrup.
Variations:
- Add sliced mushrooms to the caramelized onions for an extra layer of flavor.
- Top the gratin with breadcrumbs for added texture.
- Substitute the thyme with rosemary or sage for a different herb flavor.
Tips and Tricks:
- Be sure to grate the Oscypek cheese before starting the recipe.
- Use a mandoline or food processor to thinly slice the onions for even caramelization.
- Let the gratin cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set.
Storage Instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat the gratin in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve the gratin in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
Garnishes:
Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley.
Pairings:
Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables.
Suggested Side Dishes:
Serve with roasted potatoes or crusty bread.
Troubleshooting Advice:
If the cheese is not melted and bubbly after removing the foil, broil the gratin for a few minutes until the cheese is golden brown.
Food Safety Advice:
Be sure to cook the onions until they are fully caramelized to avoid any raw onion flavor.
Food History:
Oscypek is a traditional smoked cheese from Poland that has been made for centuries.
Flavor Profiles:
The smoky, salty flavor of the Oscypek cheese pairs perfectly with the sweet caramelized onions.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the gratin as a main dish or as a side dish for a dinner party.
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Region: Polish