Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 Spazzacamino Formaggello (approx. 1 lb)
- 2 large onions, sliced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 cup crumbled Gorgonzola cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Large skillet
- Baking dish
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally, for about 20-25 minutes.
3. Add brown sugar and balsamic vinegar to the skillet and stir until the sugar has dissolved. Cook for another 5 minutes until the mixture has thickened. Set aside.
4. Cut the top off the Spazzacamino Formaggello and place it in a baking dish. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Remove the Spazzacamino Formaggello from the oven and top with the caramelized onions and crumbled Gorgonzola cheese.
6. Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes or until the cheese has melted.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 40-45 minutes
Temperature:
Preheat oven to 375°F.
Serving size:
This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Nutritional information:
Calories: 350
Fat: 25g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 12g
Sodium: 450mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Spazzacamino Formaggello can be substituted with any soft cheese that melts well, such as brie or camembert.
- Gorgonzola cheese can be substituted with any blue cheese.
Variations:
- Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the caramelized onions for added crunch.
- Top with chopped fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, for added flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to slice the onions thinly and evenly for even caramelization.
- Use a good quality balsamic vinegar for the best flavor.
- 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 for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the Spazzacamino Formaggello with Caramelized Onions and Gorgonzola on a large platter with crackers and sliced bread.
Garnishes:
Garnish with fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary.
Pairings:
Pair with a full-bodied red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables.
Troubleshooting advice:
If the cheese is not melting evenly, place it under the broiler for a few minutes until bubbly and golden.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to cook the onions until caramelized to ensure they are fully cooked and safe to eat.
Food history:
Spazzacamino Formaggello is a soft cheese made in the Lombardy region of Italy. It is named after the chimney sweeps who used to sell cheese door-to-door.
Flavor profiles:
This dish is sweet and savory with a creamy, melted cheese texture.
Serving suggestions:
Serve as an appetizer or as a main course with a side salad.
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Region: Italian