Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 40 mins – 45 mins | Difficulty: Intermediate | Serves: 6 |
kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
357 | 23g | 13g | 27g |
sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
9g | 2g | 12g | 0.45g |
If there’s one dish that stands as a testament to my love for inventive, homely cooking – it is the Bermuda Onion Casserole. Captivating in its simplicity and sublime in its blend of flavours, this vegetable-based delight is an all-time favorite. It somehow manages to echo the beautiful melting pot that is New York, its diverse set of ingredients coming together in a dance of textures and tastes that can leave any food lover enthralled.
Uncovering the Magic
What I particularly adore about the Bermuda Onion Casserole is its unassuming charm. One would be forgiven for underestimating this dish, considering its primary ingredient – the humble onion. However, the journey of transformation that the onion undergoes in this recipe, is a metaphor unto itself. Much like a compelling character in one of my stage plays, it develops, evolves, and ends up surprising you with its depth and nuance.
The undeniable role of Bermuda onions coupled with the unique combination of cheddar cheese and crushed saltine crackers creates a backdrop of crunch and flavor that’s hard to resist. A hint of Worcestershire sauce compounds the richness, while the addition of milk and eggs contributes towards a delectable creaminess that is pure comfort food.
The Health Angle
Beyond the pleasure of taste, the Bermuda Onion Casserole serves up more than just indulgence. The onions are not only packed with flavour but also rich in vitamins and essential nutrients. They are particularly high in vitamin C and folic acid, both of which are pivotal in maintaining a robust immune system. Moreover, the antioxidants present in onions help combat harmful free radicals in the body.
As for the eggs and cheese in this recipe, they contribute protein and essential calcium – building blocks for strong bones, teeth, and muscle growth. Nevertheless, I recommend enjoying this as part of a balanced diet, paired with a green, leafy salad or some roasted vegetables. Moderation, after all, is key in savouring great food.
To those well-acquainted with the classic French Onion Soup, you may find a comforting familiarity in the Bermuda Onion Casserole. It calls to mind the hearty warmth of the soup, made robust and luxurious with the inclusion of cheese and a golden-brown crust. A timeless marriage of flavours, this is a dish that would undoubtedly impress at a Sunday brunch, or a dinner with friends. Accidentally gourmet, wholesomely delicious, it’s a must-try recipe for any food enthusiast.
What You’ll Need
- 3 large Bermuda onions
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1.5 cups crushed saltine crackers
- 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1.5 cups milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
Step Two
Peel and slice the Bermuda onions. Melt the unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions, and cook until they become translucent. This should take about 10 minutes.
Step Three
Once the onions are cooked, spread half of them over the bottom of a baking dish. Cover the onions with half of the crushed saltine crackers, then layer half of the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Repeat these layers with the remaining onions, crackers, and cheese.
Step Four
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, salt, ground black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Pour this mixture evenly over the layered onions, crackers, and cheese in the baking dish.
Step Five
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Place the dish in the oven, and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Step Six
Remove the casserole from the oven, and let it stand for about 5 minutes to cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, before serving.