Apple and Onion Bake

Apple and Onion Bake is a delicious and savory side dish that combines the sweetness of apples with the savory flavor of caramelized onions.

Ingredients:

• 3 large apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (optional)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or Gruyere cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Caramelize Onions:

   • In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add thinly sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and golden brown, about 15-20 minutes.
   • If using balsamic vinegar, add it to the caramelized onions and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

3. Prepare Apples:

   • Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples.

4. Combine Apples and Onions:

   • In a baking dish, layer the thinly sliced apples over the caramelized onions.

5. Sprinkle with Sugar:

   • Sprinkle brown sugar over the apples. This enhances the natural sweetness of the apples and adds a caramelized touch.

6. Optional: Add Herbs and Cheese:

   • If desired, sprinkle dried thyme or rosemary over the apples and onions.
   • You can also add a layer of shredded cheddar or Gruyere cheese for a cheesy topping.

7. Bake:

   • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the apples are tender.

8. Serve:

   • Once the Apple and Onion Bake is done, remove it from the oven. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.

9. Garnish (Optional):

   • Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving.

10. Serve Warm:

    • Serve the Apple and Onion Bake warm as a flavorful side dish.

Tips:

• You can use any variety of apples for both recipes, but sweet apples like Gala or Honeycrisp work well.
• For a richer flavor in the savory bake, use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth.
• You can adjust the amount of cheese and spices to your preference.
• Feel free to add other ingredients like chopped nuts, cranberries, or dried herbs to either recipe.

This dish combines the sweetness of apples with the savory and caramelized onions, creating a delicious and comforting side that pairs well with roasted meats or serves as a unique addition to your holiday table. Adjust the seasoning and ingredients according to your taste preferences.