Baked Brie with Caramelized Pears, Shallots and Thyme Recipe

Cook Time: 60 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe yields 8 servings. The ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted for different yields, but the cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 shallots, thinly sliced
• 2 pears, peeled, cored, and sliced
• cup dry white wine
• teaspoon brown sugar
• teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
• Salt and ground black pepper to taste
• 1 (8 ounce) round loaf sourdough bread
• 1 (8 ounce) round Brie cheese
• cup slivered almonds
• Assorted crackers

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350F (175C).
2. Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the shallots and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 1 minute to soften them.
3. Add the sliced pears and cook for approximately 5 minutes, or until they become soft.
4. Stir in the white wine, brown sugar, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Increase the heat to medium-high and simmer for about 10 minutes, until the liquid has evaporated and the pears have lightly caramelized. Set the mixture aside.
5. Cut a Brie-sized hole in the top of the sourdough loaf, leaving about inch from the bottom. Set the cut-out bread pieces aside for serving.
6. Score the Brie around the edge, about halfway down the wheel, using a paring knife to make a -inch deep cut. Use a long piece of string (about 18 inches) or unflavored dental floss to cut the Brie in half horizontally, pulling the ends of the string in opposite directions to separate the halves.
7. Place the bottom half of the Brie, cut-side up, into the hollowed-out sourdough loaf.
8. Top with half of the pear mixture and sprinkle with half of the slivered almonds.
9. Place the remaining Brie half on top, spread with the remaining pear mixture, and sprinkle with the remaining slivered almonds.
10. Transfer the sourdough loaf onto a baking sheet.
11. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until the Brie is soft and gooey.
12. Serve the warm Brie with the reserved sourdough bread pieces and assorted crackers.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	417
Total Fat	21g
Saturated Fat	8g
Cholesterol	32mg
Sodium	650mg
Total Carbohydrate	43g
Dietary Fiber	3g
Total Sugars	8g
Protein	13g
Vitamin C	3mg
Calcium	111mg
Iron	3mg
Potassium	221mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Nutrient information is based on available data, but some ingredients may not have complete information. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe.

History of Baked Brie with Caramelized Pears, Shallots and Thyme

The classic combination of Brie cheese, fruits, and herbs is a testament to French culinary artistry, where Brie itself hails from the le-de-France region. Known as the "Queen of Cheeses," Brie has been produced for centuries, with its creamy, delicate flavor making it a staple in French cuisine. This recipe, which pairs the rich texture of Brie with the sweetness of caramelized pears and the savory depth of shallots and thyme, embodies a blend of savory and sweet flavors, often enjoyed during the colder months or festive gatherings. While the exact origin of this particular recipe is unclear, it draws on the French tradition of pairing cheese with fruits and herbs, a practice that goes back at least to the medieval period. Its elegance and simplicity make it a favorite appetizer for dinner parties or holiday feasts.

Regional Variations and Influence

While this dish is rooted in French cheese-making traditions, it has found a place in many international kitchens, particularly in American and European cuisine. The use of sourdough bread as a vessel for the Brie is a modern twist, highlighting the American tendency to incorporate local bread varieties into classic French recipes. Similarly, while the original French versions often use pears, variations in the recipe can include apples, figs, or even dried fruits depending on the region and season. In Mediterranean countries, olive oil or a drizzle of honey might replace some of the wine, offering a more robust, earthy flavor. The versatility of the recipe allows it to adapt to regional tastes, making it a globally loved appetizer.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Unlike other baked cheese dishes such as fondue or baked goat cheese, Baked Brie with Caramelized Pears, Shallots, and Thyme stands out because of the combination of fresh fruit and savory herbs. Brie cheese itself is more delicate than stronger cheeses like cheddar or blue cheese, offering a creamier texture when melted. Additionally, the addition of wine and brown sugar to caramelize the pears gives the dish a balance of sweet and savory flavors, making it distinct from simpler baked cheese recipes. In many other baked cheese dishes, cheese is served with bread or crackers alone, but the incorporation of thyme and caramelized shallots elevates the dish, creating a depth of flavor not commonly found in other baked cheese recipes.

Where It's Usually Served

This dish is typically served as an appetizer, particularly at upscale dinner parties, holiday gatherings, or special occasions. Its presentationserved in a hollowed-out loaf of sourdough breadmakes it a visually striking dish that is often the centerpiece of a cheese board. Baked Brie with Caramelized Pears is also a favorite during the autumn and winter months, where its warm, comforting flavors pair well with festive menus. It's often served alongside crusty bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables for dipping. In some cases, the dish is enjoyed as a casual snack with wine, making it a versatile and beloved choice for various occasions.

Fun Facts About the Dish

• Brie cheese is often referred to as the "Queen of Cheeses" due to its rich history and delicate texture.
• The pairing of fruit with cheese is a tradition that dates back to the Middle Ages in Europe, where fresh fruits were often served alongside rich cheeses.
• The addition of wine, especially white wine, helps to balance the sweetness of the pears and creates a delightful sauce that complements the creamy Brie.
• In many variations of this dish, other nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, are sometimes used in place of slivered almonds to provide a different texture and flavor.
• Some people use puff pastry instead of bread to bake the Brie, which offers a different, flakier texture, but the bread provides a more rustic presentation and flavor.

FAQ about Baked Brie with Caramelized Pears, Shallots and Thyme Recipe

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