Caramelized endive with Gruyere
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375 F. Place a heavy, flat pan on medium heat. Add the oil, butter, sugar and a pinch of salt, and allow to heat up.
- Place the endive halves, cut-side down, in the pan. Do not move them for 3 to 5 minutes, or until they turn deep golden. (You might need to do this in two batches as the endives need space.) Remove from the heat. Transfer the endive halves to a small ovenproof dish, arranging them cut-side up, close together. Sprinkle with half the thyme. Place the slices of cheese on top and sprinkle with the rest of the thyme.
- Place in the oven to bake for 8 to 12 minutes, or until the cheese starts to bubble. Remove from the oven. Sprinkle with the breadcrumbs and some black pepper. Return to the oven, increase the temperature to 400 F and bake for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs brown. Serve hot.