The recent purchase of a cast iron skillet has exposed a whole new world of kitchen possibilities. If you do not own one already, get in motion to purchase the most versatile pan in the game. You can use it on the stovetop, put it in the oven, or even use it as a free weight (disclaimer: homeboy is heavy).
THE BRIE
Okay, so Brie cheese! Brie is so dang good, it honestly doesn't need a whole lotta love. When you give it love though, it enhances the natural properties of the gooey, rich goodness we know from this cheese.
I've topped this Brie with seasonal strawberries. Butter, balsamic, and brown sugar come in hot to add even more flavor. An acidic component such as the balsamic vinegar used here is important to counteract the creaminess of Brie cheese. I've also included some poppy seeds for a modest yet recognizable crunch-factor. A sprinkle of basil brings it all together.
THE CRACKER
Now, I'm sure we can all recall that tragic moment you dive into a dip and lose half of your chip/cracker on the way up... a devastating failure. As the host servings this Brie, do your guests a favor and provide them with a sturdy cracker. I went with Triscuits for a wheat taste and thick backbone to face the road to your lips.
May the inspiration found in (this cast iron), find light in your kitchen.
XO//CATH
-THE RECIPE-
1 wheel Brie cheese*
1/2 cup strawberries, chopped
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
3 Tbsp unsalted butter
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 Tbsp basil, chopped
1 tsp poppyseed
1 box Triscuits
In a 9-inch cast iron* skillet, smear 1 tablespoon of butter all over the inside of the pan. Place the Brie in the center of the pan. Score the inside of the cheese with a knife vertically and horizontally across, about an inch apart. The inside should look like squares, which will allow the toppings to seep into the cheese when baking.
Sprinkle the brown sugar on top of the Brie. Place the remaining butter on it as well.
Chop basil and set aside for the garnish. Cut fresh strawberries and disperse throughout the pan. Pour the balsamic vinegar all over the cheese and its toppings.
Bake at 400ºF for 20 mins. Top with a sprinkle of fresh basil and some poppy seeds. Fan the Triscuits on the edges of skillet when cooled a bit. Serve atop a warm plate coaster to avoid burning the countertop. Enjoy!
*Président Brie cheese is an easy-to-find brand in all stores. I recommend the smaller/medium (8oz) size to leave enough room for crackers on the edges of your pan, if serving as pictured.
*I know that I've based this whole post around using a cast iron, but any glass pan or cake pan would also work just fine for this recipe.