In Day 5 of the SITS Back to Blogging event, we were asked, "Why do you blog?". I've devoted much banter in previous posts on the topic, so I'm going to keep this answer short and sweet:
I LOVE TO CREATE THINGS, AND SHARE THEM WITH OTHER PEOPLE.
I took a peek at my blog's stats this morning and saw that there were visitors from Italy, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, South Africa, Brazil, Egypt and all over the USA? Wow!
This is what keeps me blogging -- the ability to share with people all over the world!
With all this talk of sharing, I figured I'd better have something good to share today.
So, without further ado, here is a tutorial on how to make your own specialty stuffed brie.
You can prepare these days in advance (they're better that way) and serve them as an alternative to a basic cheese plate. These delicious stuffed bries are always a crowd pleaser! A stuffed brie makes a lovely hostess gift during the holidays.
Pesto Brie with Sundried Tomatoes and Toasted Pine Nuts
Ingredients
1 wedge of good brie (approx. 1/2 pound)
3 Tablespoons Pesto, drained in a coffee filter
4-6 Basil leaves, blanched in boiling water for a few seconds
Julienne cut sundried tomatoes
Toasted Pine Nuts
Step 1: Put your wedge of brie in the freezer for 15 minutes. This will make it easier to slice.
While the brie is chilling, place pesto in a coffee filter over a glass to drain some of the oil.
Step 2: Cut the brie in half.
Step 3: Spread the pesto evenly over the bottom half of the brie, leaving 1/4" border.
Step 4: Use a paper towel to lightly blot the pesto.
Step 5: Put the top half of the brie back on.
Step 6: Arrange basil leaves on top of the brie.
Step 7: Arrange sundried tomatoes on top of brie.
Step 8: Finish by garnishing with pine nuts. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate before serving, and for up to a week.
Almond Brie Stuffed with Apricot Preserves
(this brie is also wonderful when served warm)
Ingredients
1 wedge of good brie (approx. 1/2 pound)
3 TB Apricot Preserves
Slivered Almonds, Toasted
Step 1: Put your wedge of brie in the freezer for 15 minutes.
Step 2: Cut the brie in half.