Baked Camembert with Lingonberries: A Decadent Delight

If you’re searching for an indulgent yet simple appetizer, baked Camembert with lingonberries is a perfect choice. This dish combines the creamy richness of Camembert cheese with the sweet-tart burst of lingonberries. Whether for a holiday gathering or a cozy night in, this treat promises to delight your taste buds. Let’s dive into the recipe, along with some essential tips and nutritional insights.

Delicious baked Camembert bites paired with a tangy lingonberry sauce, perfect for a savory snack or appetizer.

The Delight of Baked Camembert

Baked Camembert is not just cheese; it’s an experience. When baked, Camembert becomes lusciously gooey, perfect for dipping crusty bread. The addition of lingonberries provides a wonderful contrast, balancing the richness with their refreshing tartness.

Baking Instructions

Ingredients:

• 1 whole Camembert cheese (about 250 g or 8.8 oz)
• 3 tablespoons lingonberry jam
• 1 sprig of fresh rosemary (optional)
• 1 clove garlic, thinly sliced
• A drizzle of honey (optional)
• Crusty bread or crackers for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 200°C (400°F) or 180°C (350°F) if using a fan oven.
2. Prepare the Camembert: Remove the Camembert from its packaging and place it back in the wooden box, or in a small ovenproof dish if the box is not oven-safe.
3. Score the cheese: Lightly score the top of the Camembert in a crosshatch pattern. This allows the flavors to penetrate and helps the cheese melt evenly.
4. Add garlic and rosemary: Insert thin slices of garlic and a sprig of rosemary into the scores for added flavor.
5. Bake the Camembert: Place the cheese in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes until it’s gooey and melted.
6. Add lingonberries: Remove the Camembert from the oven and spoon the lingonberry jam over the top. Drizzle with honey if desired.
7. Serve immediately: Serve the baked Camembert with crusty bread or crackers.

Tips and Tricks

• Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on the Camembert to ensure it doesn’t overbake, as this can cause the cheese to become rubbery.
• Enhance with nuts: Sprinkling some toasted nuts, like walnuts or pecans, over the baked Camembert adds a delightful crunch.
• Experiment with herbs: While rosemary is a classic choice, thyme or even a bit of truffle oil can provide exciting flavor variations.

Nutritional Information

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

A typical serving of baked Camembert (about 55 g or 1.9 oz) provides approximately 142 calories. It offers a good source of protein and calcium, but keep in mind that it’s also high in fat.

Camembert During Pregnancy

Safety Considerations

Pregnant women should ensure that Camembert is cooked thoroughly to avoid the risk of listeriosis. According to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), bacteria are killed when Camembert is cooked at temperatures above 65°C (149°F). Most recipes recommend baking the Camembert for 20 minutes at around 200°C (400°F) or 180°C (350°F) with a fan, which is sufficient to ensure safety.

Conclusion

Baked Camembert with lingonberries is a luxurious dish that’s easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply treating yourself, this delightful combination of creamy cheese and tangy lingonberries is a must-try. Remember to follow the baking instructions closely and enjoy every gooey, flavorful bite.