Ingredients and Weight: - 1 wheel (8 oz) of ripe Brie cheese - 2 ripe pears (peeled and cored) - 1/2 cup thinly sliced shallots - 1/4 cup fresh thyme leaves - 1/4 cup brown sugar - 1/4 cup honey - 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar - 2 tablespoons olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Difficulty Level: 2 (easy-moderate)
Preparation Method Steps: 1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). 2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add shallots and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. 3. Add pears, thyme, brown sugar, honey, and balsamic vinegar. Cook, stirring occasionally, until pears are caramelized, about 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. 4. Place Brie cheese in a small baking dish or ramekin. Spread caramelized pears over the Brie. 5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until Brie is melted and bubbly.
Nutritional Information: - Calories: 250 per serving (1/8 of wheel) - Fat: 20g - Carbohydrates: 25g - Protein: 8g
Dish Characteristics: - Rich and creamy Brie cheese - Sweet and savory caramelized pears - Aromatic thyme and shallots - Served as a hot dip with crackers or crostini
User Comments: - "This is the perfect appetizer for a party. It's so easy to make and always a hit with guests." - "The combination of flavors is amazing. The sweetness of the pears pairs so well with the cheese." - "I love the addition of thyme. It gives the dish a nice herbal touch."
Special Precautions and Tips: - Use ripe Brie cheese for the best flavor and texture. - If you don't have time to caramelize the pears, you can use canned pear halves instead. - Serve with crackers or crostini for dipping. - Keep the dip warm in a fondue pot or chafing dish if serving over an extended period.