Cheese in a crust of hazelnuts baked in the oven

Baked Cheese with Nut Crust

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 15-20 minutes
Total time: 35-40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Today we bring you a delicious and simple recipe, perfect for a quick snack or an appetizer that will impress any guest. Baked cheese with nut crust is a savory combination of textures and flavors, featuring a crunchy crust and a creamy, aromatic interior, ideal to be served alongside a slice of lemon that provides a perfect contrast. This recipe is a wonderful way to transform a simple ingredient like cheese into a sophisticated dish.

A brief history

Cheese is a popular ingredient in many culinary cultures, with a long and varied history. In this recipe, we focus on the smoked variety of this cheese, which gives it a distinct and rich flavor. The nut, breadcrumb, and sesame crust not only adds a crunchy layer but also a note of nutrition, thanks to the protein and healthy fats from the nuts.

Ingredients

- 1 bag of roasted and salted nuts (approximately 100g)
- 250g of smoked cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon of mustard (preferably Dijon for a more intense flavor)
- 4-5 tablespoons of breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon of flour

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating the oven to 200°C. It is important to have the oven well-heated to achieve a perfect and crispy crust.

2. Prepare the ingredients: Cut the smoked cheese into thick slices of about 1 cm. They need enough volume to remain juicy inside after baking.

3. Mix the egg with the mustard: In a bowl, beat the egg with a fork and add the mustard. The mixture should be homogeneous and have a fluid consistency to stick to the cheese.

4. Prepare the crust: In another bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, flour, crushed nuts, and sesame seeds. This mixture will form the crunchy crust that will envelop each slice of cheese.

5. Coat the cheese slices: Take each slice of cheese and dip it into the egg and mustard mixture, ensuring it is well coated. Then, dip the slices into the breadcrumb, flour, nut, and sesame mixture. Press gently to ensure the crust sticks well to the cheese.

6. Arrange on the tray: Line a baking tray with parchment paper and place the coated cheese slices on it, leaving a little space between them to allow air circulation.

7. Bake: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the crust becomes golden and crispy. Be careful with them, as the baking time may vary depending on the oven.

8. Serve: Remove the tray from the oven and let the slices cool for a few minutes. Serve them warm, alongside lemon slices to add a touch of freshness.

Practical tips

- Choosing the cheese: Opt for a quality smoked cheese, as the smoky flavor will greatly influence the final taste of the dish. You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or mozzarella, but the baking time may vary.

- Vegan option: For a vegan version, you can use any vegan cheese and replace the egg with a mixture of chickpea flour or lentil flour with water.

- Additional flavors: Add herbs like rosemary or thyme to the breadcrumb mixture for an extra flavor boost.

- Frequently asked questions:
- How crispy will the cheese slices be after baking? If you follow the steps correctly, the slices will have a crispy crust, but the inside will remain soft and creamy.
- Can I prepare them in advance? You can prepare them ahead of time, keep them in the fridge, and bake them before serving.
- What can they be paired with? These slices can be served with sauces like garlic yogurt sauce or with a fresh green salad.

Nutritional benefits

Cheese is an excellent source of protein and calcium, essential for bone health. Nuts add healthy fats, vitamin E, and antioxidants, while sesame seeds are rich in minerals like calcium, magnesium, and iron. This combination makes our recipe not just a culinary delight but also a nutritious option.

Conclusion

Baked cheese with nut crust is a recipe that combines simplicity with refinement, being easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it as an appetizer at a party or as a snack between meals, it will surely become a favorite for everyone. It can be accompanied by a glass of white wine or a fresh lemonade, adding a touch of elegance to your table. Experiment with different variations and don't hesitate to share these delicious moments with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!