Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 wheel of Toma del Maccagno cheese (about 1 pound)
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Cast iron skillet or non-stick pan
- Cheese slicer or sharp knife
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and butter. Once the butter has melted, add the sliced onions and stir to coat them in the oil and butter.
3. Cook the onions for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and caramelized.
4. Add the brown sugar to the onions and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the sugar has dissolved and the onions are browned and sticky.
5. Remove the skillet from heat and let the onions cool slightly.
6. Using a cheese slicer or sharp knife, slice the Toma del Maccagno cheese into thin slices.
7. Arrange the cheese slices in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Top the cheese slices with the caramelized onions, spreading them evenly over the cheese.
9. Bake the cheese and onions for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cheese cool for a few minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
Preheat oven to 350°F.
Serving size:
This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 300
Total fat: 25g
Saturated fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 400mg
Total carbohydrates: 8g
Dietary fiber: 1g
Total sugars: 5g
Protein: 12g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Toma del Maccagno cheese can be substituted with any semi-soft or soft cheese, such as Brie or Camembert.
- Brown sugar can be substituted with honey or maple syrup.
Variations:
- Add chopped fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to the caramelized onions for extra flavor.
- Top the cheese with sliced apples or pears for a sweet and savory twist.
- Serve the cheese and onions on top of toasted bread or crackers for a delicious appetizer.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to slice the cheese thinly so it melts evenly in the oven.
- Use a non-stick pan or well-seasoned cast iron skillet to prevent the onions from sticking.
- Don't overcook the onions, as they can become bitter.
Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat, place the cheese and onions on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the cheese and onions on a wooden board or platter for a rustic presentation.
Garnishes:
Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for a pop of color.
Pairings:
This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve with a side of crusty bread or crackers for dipping.
Troubleshooting advice:
If the cheese is not melting evenly, try slicing it thinner or increasing the oven temperature slightly.
Food safety advice:
Be sure to properly store leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat to an internal temperature of 165°F.
Food history:
Toma del Maccagno is a semi-soft cheese from the Piedmont region of Italy. It is made from cow's milk and has a mild, nutty flavor.
Flavor profiles:
This dish has a rich and savory flavor from the caramelized onions, which pairs perfectly with the creamy and slightly tangy Toma del Maccagno cheese.
Serving suggestions:
Serve as an appetizer or as part of a cheese board.
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Region: Italian