We all have that one dish we've heard about countless times and just know we have to try.
For me, it was Camembert cheese, a classic French delight. After seeing my German roommate enjoy it so much, I finally decided to get my hands on a block of Camembert to try it for myself. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint!
The creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture, combined with its rich flavor, made it worth every bite. Today, we're going to share the traditional method for baking Camembert, which, when paired with hearty bread, is an absolute treat.
Ingredients
For this simple yet indulgent recipe, we'll need:
• 1 block of Camembert cheese
• Garlic (to taste)
• Fresh basil (to taste)
• Fresh rosemary (to taste)
It's a minimalistic list of ingredients, but trust me, the results will wow your taste buds.
Preparation: Getting the Camembert Ready
First things first, let's prepare the Camembert cheese. Begin by taking it out of its packaging and carefully slicing the top of the cheese in a crisscross pattern. You don't need to cut deep – just enough to create small indentations where the garlic and herbs can go.
Next, slice some garlic and insert the pieces into the cuts in the cheese. If you're in a rush, garlic powder will also do the trick, but fresh garlic really adds that extra punch of flavor. After the garlic is in place, it's time to add the herbs. I like to insert a few sprigs of fresh rosemary into the cheese (although I didn't have any on hand, so I skipped that step). Then, sprinkle some basil powder over the top for that aromatic finish.
Baking the Camembert
Preheat your oven to 200°C (around 400°F). If you're baking the cheese in a plastic-wrapped block, place it on some aluminum foil to protect it from the heat. Traditionally, Camembert comes in a wooden box, and if you have one, feel free to pop the cheese in directly with the box and bake it as is.
Place the prepared cheese in the oven and bake for about 25 minutes. You'll know it's ready when the cheese starts to soften and ooze out from its rind. It's that irresistible melted goodness we've all been waiting for.
Serving the Camembert
While the cheese is baking, let's prepare our bread. For this dish, you'll want to go with something on the firmer side, like a nice crusty baguette or sourdough. Slice the bread into thick pieces so you have something substantial to dip into the gooey Camembert.
Once the cheese is out of the oven, it should be soft, warm, and inviting. Use the bread to dip into the melted cheese – it's a combination of textures and flavors that will leave you craving more.
Enjoying the Perfect Baked Camembert
There's something incredibly satisfying about watching the cheese melt, then scooping it up with crispy bread. The garlic and herbs infuse the cheese with extra flavor, while the bread complements the dish perfectly. It's an ideal snack for gatherings, or even a cozy treat for yourself.
When I tried this, I couldn't help but marvel at how simple ingredients could come together to create such a rich and flavorful experience. The Camembert truly lived up to its reputation as the king of French cheeses!
Conclusion: A French Classic Worth Trying
So, Lykkers, if you've never tried baked Camembert before, this is your sign to do so. It's easy, quick, and incredibly delicious. Whether you're serving it at a party or enjoying it for yourself, it's sure to impress. Trust me, this dish is going to be a hit in your kitchen!
What's your go-to cheesy dish? Let me know in the comments!
