Ingredients with Measurements:
- 500g Queijo de Colônia (Colony Cheese)
- 2 cups of tomato sauce
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Special equipment needed:
- Oven-safe baking dish
- Saucepan
- Wooden spoon
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cut the Queijo de Colônia into 1-inch cubes and set aside.
3. In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté until translucent.
4. Pour the tomato sauce into the saucepan and stir well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Let the tomato sauce simmer for 5-10 minutes until it thickens.
6. In an oven-safe baking dish, arrange the Queijo de Colônia cubes in a single layer.
7. Pour the tomato sauce over the cheese cubes, making sure they are fully covered.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
10. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Temperature:
Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C)
Serving size:
This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 350
Total fat: 25g
Saturated fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 800mg
Total carbohydrate: 10g
Dietary fiber: 2g
Sugars: 6g
Protein: 20g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Queijo de Colônia can be substituted with any other semi-hard cheese, such as cheddar or gouda.
- Fresh basil leaves can be substituted with dried basil.
Variations:
- Add sliced mushrooms to the tomato sauce for a more earthy flavor.
- Substitute the tomato sauce with marinara sauce for a sweeter taste.
- Add sliced pepperoni or cooked ground beef for a meatier version.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the cheese cubes are evenly spaced in the baking dish to ensure even melting.
- Use a wooden spoon to stir the tomato sauce to prevent it from sticking to the saucepan.
- Serve with crusty bread or crackers for dipping.
Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the Queijo de Colônia com Molho de Tomate in a rustic baking dish for a cozy and inviting presentation.
Garnishes:
Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and added flavor.
Pairings:
Pair with a full-bodied red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cheese is not melting evenly, try cutting it into smaller cubes.
- If the tomato sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or chicken broth to thin it out.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure the cheese is fully melted and bubbly before serving.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days.
Food history:
Queijo de Colônia is a semi-hard cheese that originated in Germany. It is named after the city of Cologne, where it was first produced in the 19th century.
Flavor profiles:
Queijo de Colônia has a nutty and slightly sweet flavor, while the tomato sauce adds a tangy and savory taste.
Serving suggestions:
Serve as an appetizer or main dish for a cozy and comforting meal.
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Region: Portuguese