Homestyle Onion and Pecorino Cheese Bake
Are you in search of a dish that has the power to evoke memories and authentic flavors? Today, I’ll guide you through the preparation of a dish that combines the sweetness of onions with the intensity of aged pecorino cheese: a bake that exudes tradition and family warmth.
I still remember when my grandma, originally from Catalonia, used to make it on cold winter evenings. The enveloping aroma that filled the house was the prelude to unforgettable convivial moments. This version of the bake is a tribute to those precious moments, a real treat for the palate.
Imagine soft and creamy layers enriched with a cheese of strong character, all gratinated until it reaches that perfect golden crust. Every bite will be a sensory journey to the Catalan land, simple but surprisingly rich. Get ready to welcome this dish into your kitchen; it will undoubtedly become one of your go-to dishes!
Recipe Notes
- EASE: Easy and quick to prepare.
- PROS: Intense flavor from the pecorino and tender onions.
- CONS: Requires careful attention during onion braising.
- PREPARATION: Starts with braising the onions and then gratinates in the oven.
- NUTRITIONAL NOTES: Approximately 350 Kcal per serving.
Notes on the Recipe’s Ingredients
- White Onions: sweet and rich in fiber, perfect for a savory bake
- Butter: adds creaminess and flavor to the dish
- Aged Pecorino Cheese: brings intense and salty flavor
- Beef Broth: adds depth of taste to the onions
- Salt: to adjust the dish’s flavor according to personal preferences
Nutritional Aspects
Let’s explore the nutritional benefits of the Catalan-style onion and pecorino cheese bake:
- Rich in antioxidants thanks to the white onions.
- Moderate calorie intake, approximately 350 Kcal per serving.
- Pecorino cheese is a good source of calcium and protein.
- Contains butter, a source of saturated fats to be consumed in moderation.
- Possibility to add aromatic herbs to enrich the nutritional profile.
Recipe for Catalan Style Onion Flan with Pecorino
Ingredients
- 600 g Onion White
- 100 g Butter
- Pecorino Cheese Aged to taste
- 2 ladles Broth Beef
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Start by preheating the oven to 200°C.
- Take a non-stick pan and melt the butter over medium heat.
- Meanwhile, peel the onions and cut them into julienne (thin strips).
- Add the onions to the pan with the melted butter and let them sauté lightly.
- Pour the two ladles of hot broth over the onions, stir, and cover with a lid. Let it braise for about 15 minutes, checking occasionally.
- When the onions are soft and translucent, incorporate plenty of grated pecorino cheese according to your taste.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, level it well, and bake.
- Gratinate in the hot oven until a golden and gratinated crust has formed on the surface.
Notes
Variations of Catalan-Style Onion Bake with Pecorino
Add crispy bacon for an extra salty and savory touch.
- Try adding a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper for a bit of spiciness.
- Swap the pecorino for grana padano cheese for a milder variation.
- Sprinkle in a handful of chopped walnuts for a crunchy texture and a slightly nutty flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Recipe
If you have any doubts or questions, you’ll find the answers to your curiosities here!
How can I make the onion bake more flavorful?
Add fresh aromatic herbs like thyme or rosemary during the braising of the onions for a more intense aroma.
Can I substitute pecorino cheese with another type of cheese?
Yes, you can replace pecorino cheese with another aged cheese of your choice.
How long does it take to gratinate the bake in the oven?
The time to gratinate the bake in the oven varies, but generally takes about 10-15 minutes until a golden crust forms on the surface.
