Swiss Cheese Bake

Swiss Cheese Bake Recipe - Vegetarian Food from Switzerland

Region / culture: Switzerland | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Swiss Cheese Bake is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the flavors of Swiss cheese, tomatoes, and a savory custard. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion.

History

The origins of Swiss Cheese Bake are not well-documented, but it is believed to have originated in Switzerland, where cheese is a staple ingredient in many dishes. This recipe has been passed down through generations and has become a popular dish in many households.

Ingredients

4 cups croutons
2 green tomatoes, thinly sliced
1 ripe tomato, thinly sliced
0.5 lb (227 g) swiss cheese, shredded
2 eggs
1.5 cups milk
0.75 tsp salt
0.5 tsp paprika
0.5 tsp dry mustard

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Arrange the croutons in a 9" pie plate.
Top the croutons with tomato slices and sprinkle with Swiss cheese.
In a bowl, beat the remaining ingredients using a fork or wire whisk.
Pour the mixture over the cheese.
Bake for 40 minutes or until puffy and brown.
Serve immediately.

Variations

Add cooked bacon or ham for a meatier version.
Use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or Gruyere, for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor and texture.

- You can customize this recipe by adding other vegetables or herbs to the dish.

- Make sure to beat the eggs and milk mixture well to ensure a smooth and creamy custard.

Serving Suggestions

Swiss Cheese Bake can be served as a main dish with a side salad or steamed vegetables.

Cooking Techniques

Baking

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use any type of bread or cracker crumbs in place of croutons.

- Any type of cheese can be used in place of Swiss cheese.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the Swiss Cheese Bake up to a day in advance and bake it just before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Swiss Cheese Bake in individual ramekins for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Swiss Cheese Bake pairs well with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Swiss Cheese Bake contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Swiss Cheese Bake contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Swiss Cheese Bake contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Swiss Cheese Bake contains approximately 12 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Swiss Cheese Bake is a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin C.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese and milk) and gluten (croutons).

Summary

Swiss Cheese Bake is a balanced dish that provides a good amount of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Swiss Cheese Bake is a delicious and versatile dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its creamy custard, tangy tomatoes, and gooey cheese, this dish is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy one. It was many years ago, when I was a young girl living in a small village nestled in the Swiss Alps. My grandmother, who was known far and wide for her delicious cooking, had just received a visit from an old friend who had brought with her a new recipe she had learned during her travels.

As soon as I saw the ingredients, I knew it was going to be something special. Swiss cheese, butter, eggs, and a few other simple ingredients were all that were needed to create this delectable dish. My grandmother and I set to work immediately, the fragrant smell of melted cheese filling the kitchen as we mixed and stirred.

As the dish baked in the oven, my grandmother told me the story behind the recipe. It had been passed down through generations in her friend's family, each cook adding their own twist to make it their own. I was fascinated by the idea of a recipe being a living, breathing thing, changing and evolving with each new generation.

When the timer finally dinged, we pulled the Swiss Cheese Bake out of the oven, the golden crust bubbling and gooey cheese oozing out from the sides. I couldn't wait to dig in, and when I finally took my first bite, I knew that this recipe would become a staple in our household.

Over the years, I have made this Swiss Cheese Bake countless times, each time adding a little of my own flair to make it uniquely mine. I have shared it with friends and family, who have all raved about its deliciousness. It has become my go-to dish for potlucks and dinner parties, always eliciting oohs and aahs from those lucky enough to taste it.

I have even passed the recipe down to my own children, who have taken it and made it their own in their kitchens. It warms my heart to see them carrying on the tradition, adding their own special touch to an already perfect dish.

As I sit here now, in my cozy kitchen surrounded by the aromas of baking bread and simmering soup, I am grateful for the memories and traditions that cooking has brought into my life. The recipes I have collected over the years are not just instructions for making a meal, but reminders of the people and places that have shaped me into the cook I am today.

And so, as I take another bite of my beloved Swiss Cheese Bake, I am filled with gratitude for the simple pleasures of good food and good company. Life is a banquet, and I am grateful to have a seat at the table, surrounded by the ones I love and the dishes that bring us together.