Delightful Cheese and Nut Torte

This delicious cheese and nut torte is a unique culinary treat combining the rich flavors of cheese, crunchy hazelnuts, and a buttery rye base. Its creamy cheese layer is perfectly complemented by the nutty, crispy crust, providing a diverse texture and taste that will satisfy any palate. It’s a great dish to prepare for special occasions or to impress guests with its sophisticated and elegant presentation. Preparation is relatively simple, requiring basic kitchen skills and common household ingredients. The torte needs a few hours to set in the fridge, making it perfect to prepare in advance for a hassle-free serving experience. With vibrant flavors and warming textures, this cheese and nut torte serves as an excellent side or standalone dish. Ideal for cheese lovers, it celebrates the creamy and nutty notes of its ingredients beautifully. The dish is also adaptable; feel free to experiment with your favorite types of cheese or nuts to customize according to your taste. Serving suggestions and tips are included to enhance your cooking experience even further.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 packet of grated Džiugas cheese
• 4 hard-boiled eggs
• 1 cup rye breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 1/3 cup chopped and toasted hazelnuts
• 4 tablespoons mayonnaise

Preparation Time

Total Time: 45 minutes (including chilling time).

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Begin by **greasing a small round cake pan** with removable sides, covering both the base and the sides to prevent sticking.
2. Combine the rye breadcrumbs with melted butter in a bowl, mixing until the crumbs are uniformly moist and form a cohesive mixture.
3. Press the breadcrumb mixture into the prepared cake pan, creating a level base with slight edges to contain the filling. Place in the refrigerator to set for 30 minutes.
4. Grate the hard-boiled eggs using a coarse grater, then combine them with the grated Džiugas cheese and toasted hazelnuts.
5. Add the mayonnaise to the cheese and egg mixture, stirring until fully incorporated and smooth.
6. Once the base is set, spread the cheese and egg mixture evenly across the top, smoothing the surface with a spatula for an even layer.
7. Cover the torte with plastic wrap and refrigerate for several hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the torte to firm up.
8. Before serving, gently run a sharp knife around the edges to loosen the sides, and carefully remove the form's sides.
9. Decorate the torte with additional toasted hazelnuts if desired.
10. Serve chilled for a refreshing snack or appetizer.

Tips

• **Use high-quality cheese** for best flavor results.
• Experiment by substituting hazelnuts with almonds or walnuts.
• Ensure the torte is well chilled before serving to achieve the right texture.

Nutritions

Calories: Approx. 350 per serving, Protein: 15g, Fats: 28g, Carbs: 12g

Variations

• For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• Replace Džiugas cheese with your favorite cheese variant for different flavor profiles.

Serving Suggestions

This torte pairs beautifully with a crisp, white wine or a refreshing salad of mixed greens. Garnish with fresh herbs for a lovely presentation.

Best Places

1. The Cheese Bar - A haven for cheese lovers, offering exquisite cheese platters and delightful dishes. Location: Camden Market, London, UK.
2. Casa Del Queso - Known for its vast selection of international cheeses and artisanal offerings. Location: La Rambla, Barcelona, Spain.
3. Formaggio Kitchen - A cheese shop with a world-class selection of cheeses and accompaniments. Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA.
4. L’Art Du Fromage - A restaurant dedicated to cheese, featuring innovative cheese dishes. Location: Fulham, London, UK.
5. Cheese Cave - An intimate setting for enjoying curated cheese boards and local delicacies. Location: Claremont, California, USA.
6. Fribourg Café - Offers a Swiss twist on traditional cheese dishes in a charming setting. Location: Lausanne, Switzerland.
7. Cheese Truckles - Specializes in artisanal cheeses and provides a warm, cozy ambiance. Location: Dublin, Ireland.
8. Milk The Cow - Known for its cheesy delights and extensive tasting options. Location: St Kilda, Melbourne, Australia.
9. Beefbar - Offers a unique cheese experience within its elegant setting. Location: Monte Carlo, Monaco.
10. Cheese Room, Harrods - Features a luxurious cheese shopping and tasting experience. Location: Knightsbridge, London, UK.