Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large onions, sliced
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Special equipment needed:
- 9-inch springform pan
- Large skillet
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, butter, Parmesan cheese, eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Grease the springform pan with butter or cooking spray. Pour the batter into the pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
4. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let cool.
5. While the torta is baking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and bacon and cook until the onions are caramelized and the bacon is crispy, about 15-20 minutes.
6. Add the balsamic vinegar and brown sugar to the skillet and stir until the sugar has dissolved. Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the mixture has thickened.
7. Once the torta has cooled, remove it from the springform pan and place it on a serving platter.
8. Spoon the caramelized onion and bacon mixture over the top of the torta, spreading it evenly.
9. Serve the torta warm or at room temperature.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 50-60 minutes
Temperature:
350°F
Serving size:
8-10 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 320
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 85mg
Sodium: 420mg
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 8g
Protein: 10g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Cornmeal can be substituted with semolina flour or polenta.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese.
- Balsamic vinegar can be substituted with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar.
- Brown sugar can be substituted with honey or maple syrup.
Variations:
- Add sliced mushrooms to the onion and bacon mixture for extra flavor.
- Substitute the bacon with pancetta or prosciutto for a different taste.
- Add chopped fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to the torta batter for extra flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the butter is softened before mixing it with the other ingredients.
- Use a toothpick to check if the torta is done. If it comes out clean, it's ready.
- Let the torta cool completely before removing it from the springform pan.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the torta into slices.
Storage instructions:
Store the leftover torta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat the torta in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the torta on a large platter with a sprig of fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, on top.
Garnishes:
Garnish the torta with additional grated Parmesan cheese or chopped fresh herbs.
Pairings:
Serve the torta with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
Suggested side dishes:
- Arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze
- Grilled asparagus with Parmesan cheese
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the torta is too dry, add a little more milk to the batter.
- If the onions are burning, reduce the heat and add a little more olive oil to the skillet.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure the torta is cooked all the way through before serving.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days.
Food history:
Torta alla Monferrina is a traditional Italian dish from the Piedmont region of Italy. It is typically made with cornmeal and filled with a variety of ingredients, such as cheese, vegetables, and meats.
Flavor profiles:
The torta has a savory and slightly sweet flavor, with the caramelized onions and balsamic vinegar adding a tangy and sweet taste.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the torta as a main dish for lunch or dinner, or as an appetizer for a party or gathering.
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Region: Italian