Savory Parmesan Crème Brûlée with Balsamic Tomato Jam -

Savory Parmesan Crème Brûlée with Balsamic Tomato Jam is a stunning gourmet delight that reinvents the classic French dessert. This recipe takes you on a culinary adventure, combining the creamy richness of Parmesan custard with the sweet-tart notes of balsamic tomato jam, all crowned with a textural contrast of caramelized sugar. It’s an impressive dish to serve at dinner parties or special occasions, guaranteed to wow your guests and tantalize their taste buds.

Why You’ll Love It

This savory twist on crème brûlée encapsulates the elegance of French cuisine while introducing unexpected flavors. The shattering sugar crust gives a satisfying crunch, revealing a buttery custard infused with umami from the Parmesan cheese. Paired with the balsamic tomato jam, every spoonful offers a captivating blend of flavors and textures, elevating your tasting experience. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a culinary novice, this dish will make you feel like a professional chef in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this exquisite dish:

For the Parmesan Crème Brûlée:

250 ml heavy cream
100 ml whole milk
3 large egg yolks
60 g finely grated Parmesan cheese
Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
2 tsp fine white sugar, for brûlée topping

For the Balsamic Tomato Jam:

300 g cherry tomatoes
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
1 tbsp brown sugar
Salt, to taste
1 sprig fresh thyme (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Roast the Tomatoes
Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F). In a mixing bowl, toss the cherry tomatoes with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, salt, and the optional thyme sprig. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast for about 45 minutes or until they become blistered and jammy. Once done, remove the thyme sprig and lightly mash the tomatoes with a fork. Cool the jam and refrigerate it until needed.

Step 2: Prepare the Custard
In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream and whole milk over medium heat until just steaming; do not bring it to a boil. Meanwhile, in a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, finely grated Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and optional nutmeg. Slowly pour the hot cream mixture into the egg mixture while whisking continuously to temper the yolks and prevent them from scrambling. After thoroughly combined, strain the custard through a sieve into a clean bowl to remove any lumps.

Step 3: Bake the Crème Brûlée
Evenly distribute the custard mixture into four ramekins. Place the ramekins in a baking dish, then fill the dish halfway with hot water to create a water bath. Bake in the preheated oven at 150°C (300°F) for about 35-40 minutes, or until the custard is just set but still has a slight wobble in the center. Allow the ramekins to cool, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight for best results) to fully firm up the custard.

Step 4: Torch the Topping
Once the custard has chilled, sprinkle a thin layer of fine white sugar over the top of each custard. Using a kitchen torch, carefully melt the sugar until it caramelizes into a beautiful golden crust. If you don’t have a torch, you can place the ramekins under a broiler for a minute or two, but monitor closely to avoid burning.

Step 5: Plate with Tomato Jam
To serve, place each crème brûlée beside a spoonful of the chilled balsamic tomato jam. For an added touch, garnish with microgreens or additional herbs as desired, making for a visually appealing presentation.

Pro Tips for Making Savory Parmesan Crème Brûlée

Ensure your ingredients, especially the cream and milk, are fresh for the best flavor.
Use a fine sieve when straining your custard to ensure a silky texture.
When caramelizing the sugar, aim for an even layer to get a uniform crust—avoid using too much sugar.
Feel free to infuse the cream with herbs before mixing it with the yolks for added complexity.
Experiment with different cheese to create a unique flavor profile that suits your palate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the crème brûlée in advance?

Absolutely! The custard can be made a day in advance, and just torch the sugar topping just before serving.

Are there alternative toppings to balsamic tomato jam?

Yes, you can pair this crème brûlée with a variety of toppings, such as fig jam, roasted peppers, or even a herb-infused olive oil for an equally delightful combination.

What is the purpose of the water bath while baking?

The water bath helps regulate the temperature, preventing the custard from cooking too quickly, ensuring a smooth and creamy texture.

Can I use different cheeses for the custard?

While Parmesan is recommended for its unique flavor, you can experiment with other types of cheeses like aged cheddar or Gruyère for varied results.

How do I store leftover crème brûlée?

Store any leftover crème brûlée in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 2 days. Just add the sugar topping right before you plan to serve it again.

Conclusion

Creating a Savory Parmesan Crème Brûlée with Balsamic Tomato Jam is not only a celebration of flavors but also a testament to the art of cooking. With its delightful balance of savory custard and tangy jam, this dish is a unique twist on a classic French delicacy. Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a gourmet night in, this recipe allows you to step into the chef’s shoes effortlessly. So gather your ingredients, and let’s bring a touch of luxury to your dining experience!