Introduction
Indulge in a delightful twist on classic comfort food with this scrumptious Bolognese stuffed bread bun recipe. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a casual gathering, these hearty buns are filled with rich Bolognese sauce, aromatic garlic, and gooey Camembert cheese. Serving this dish not only warms the belly but also brings a sense of joy with its cheesy and savory combination.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
500g Bolognese sauce
4 crusty bread buns
2 cloves of garlic
4 sprigs of thyme
Olive oil
100g Camembert cheese
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Total Time
25 minutes
Yield
Serves 4
Method
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F/gas 4. Reheat the Bolognese in a pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally and adding a little water if needed.
2. Slice the tops off the buns and set them aside. Hollow out the soft middles of the buns using a small knife.
3. Peel and halve the garlic cloves, then rub the cut sides around the inside of each bun. Place the buns in a roasting tray, tear the soft middles around them, and place the bun lids alongside.
4. Finely slice the garlic and scatter it in and around the buns in the tray. Strip the thyme leaves into the tray, drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and add a quarter of the cheese to each bun.
5. Bake for 10 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the buns are golden.
6. Fill each bun with the reheated Bolognese, place the lids on top, and use the crispy torn pieces as croutons to mop up any excess sauce.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F/gas 4. In a pan over medium heat, reheat the Bolognese sauce, stirring occasionally. Add a little water if needed to maintain the desired consistency.
Step 2: Prepare the Buns
Slice the tops off the crusty bread buns and set the tops aside. Use a small knife to hollow out the soft middles of each bun, being careful not to tear the outer crust.
Step 3: Season the Buns
Peel and halve the garlic cloves. Rub the cut sides around the inside of each hollowed bun to impart flavor. Place the buns in a roasting tray, and tear the soft middles of the buns into pieces, scattering them around the tray. Set the bun lids alongside the hollowed buns.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Thyme
Finely slice the remaining garlic and scatter it inside and around the buns in the tray. Strip the leaves from the thyme sprigs and distribute them in the tray. Drizzle everything with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and add a quarter of the Camembert cheese to each bun.
Step 5: Bake the Buns
Bake the tray for 10 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the buns are golden brown.
Step 6: Fill and Serve
Carefully fill each bun with the reheated Bolognese sauce, and place the lids on top. Utilize the crispy torn pieces of bread as croutons to mop up any excess sauce.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed buns are best served immediately, while the cheese is melty and the bread is crispy.
Storing Leftovers
If there are any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Ingredient Variations
Feel free to substitute the Camembert with other cheeses such as mozzarella or cheddar for different flavors. You can also add additional toppings like grated Parmesan or fresh herbs.
Allergy Considerations
Be mindful of allergies; for example, if gluten is a concern, look for gluten-free buns as a substitute.
Cook techniques
Reheating Bolognese Sauce
Reheat the Bolognese sauce in a pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of water to maintain the desired consistency.
Hollowing Out Bread Buns
To hollow out the buns, use a small knife to carefully cut around the edges of the bun’s inside, removing the soft middle without damaging the outer crust.
Infusing Garlic Flavor
Peel and halve garlic cloves, then rub the cut sides around the inside of each hollowed bun to impart a rich garlic flavor throughout the bread.
Seasoning with Thyme
Strip the leaves from fresh thyme sprigs and sprinkle them into the roasting tray to release their aromatic oils, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
Baking Buns and Cheese
Place the prepared buns in a hot oven and bake until the cheese melts and the buns turn golden. This method ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and cheesy.
Assembling the Buns
Fill the hollowed buns with the warmed Bolognese sauce, top them with their lids, and use the crispy, torn bread pieces to scoop up any leftover sauce.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Camembert?
Yes, you can substitute Camembert with other soft cheeses like Brie, mozzarella, or even cheddar, depending on your taste preference.
How do I store leftover Bolognese sauce?
Store any leftover Bolognese sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze it for longer storage.
Can I prepare the buns ahead of time?
Yes, you can hollow out the buns and prepare the garlic and thyme mixture in advance. Just assemble and bake them when ready to serve.
What other fillings can I use instead of Bolognese?
You can fill the buns with various ingredients like chili, stew, or roasted vegetables for a different flavor profile.
Can I use regular bread instead of crusty buns?
While crusty buns give a nice texture, you can use regular bread. Just adjust the hollowing technique to accommodate the different bread type.
Conclusion
The combination of crusty bread buns, rich Bolognese sauce, and melted Camembert creates a delightful meal that is both comforting and indulgent. The fragrant garlic and thyme enhance the flavors, making this dish perfect for a cozy dinner or a casual gathering. Enjoy the unique experience of using the crispy bun tops and torn pieces as croutons to savor every drop of the flavorful sauce.
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