Ontario Gold Medallions

Introduction

Ontario Gold Medallions is a unique dish with roots in the rich culinary heritage of Ontario, Canada. Known for its golden, crispy exterior and soft, flavorful interior, it is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a sophisticated gathering. Often made with local ingredients, it reflects the region's dedication to fresh and sustainable cuisine.

Ingredients

• Golden Potatoes - 6 large
• Butter - 1/2 cup
• Olive Oil - 2 tablespoons
• Yellow Onions, finely chopped - 1 cup
• Garlic, minced - 4 cloves
• Fresh Thyme, chopped - 1 tablespoon
• Sea Salt - to taste
• Black Pepper - to taste
• Parmesan Cheese, grated - 1 cup
• Fresh Parsley, chopped - for garnish

Preparation

Step One: Prepping the Potatoes

Begin by thoroughly washing the golden potatoes. Peel and cut them into thick medallion slices approximately 1/2 inch thick. This thickness ensures a balance between a moist interior and crispy exterior when cooked.

Blanch the potato medallions in a pot of salted boiling water for about 5 minutes. This partial cooking softens them, making the edges perfect for absorbing flavors and crisping up during the roasting process. After blanching, drain the potatoes and let them dry completely, which is crucial to achieving that desired crispiness.

Step Two: Aromatic Sauté

In a large skillet, melt the butter with olive oil over medium heat. The combination of these fats adds flavor depth and helps in even cooking. Add yellow onions and sauté until they become translucent. This usually takes about 5 minutes.

Next, add the garlic and thyme, cooking for another 2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant. Stir regularly to prevent the garlic from burning, as it can become bitter.

Cooking Process

Step One: Preheating the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), ensuring it is at the right temperature to scare the potatoes and create that perfect texture we desire.

Step Two: Roasting the Medallions

Arrange the prepared potato medallions in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and allows for easy cleanup.

Spoon the aromatic mixture over the potatoes, ensuring each golden potato is seasoned well. Sprinkle over sea salt and black pepper to taste. Finish with a light drizzle of olive oil to promote even roasting and add a beautiful sheen.

Roast for about 25 minutes, then flip each medallion to ensure even roasting on both sides. Roast for an additional 15-20 minutes until both sides are golden and crispy.

Step Three: Final Touches

As soon as the medallions are out of the oven, sprinkle the parmesan cheese over them, allowing the residual heat to melt the cheese beautifully. The addition of cheese complements the flavors, adding a savory richness and slight nuttiness.

How to Enjoy Ontario Gold Medallions

Serve the Ontario Gold Medallions immediately, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley to add a pop of color and freshness. These medallions pair excellently with a variety of main courses, such as roasted meats or vegetarian mains. They can also stand alone as a featured appetizer.

For a complete experience, consider dining with a glass of Ontario wine. The crisp and earthy flavors of a local Chardonnay or Pinot Noir enhance the dish's complexity and bring out the subtleties of the thyme and parmesan.

Whether you are enjoying them with family or serving them at a gathering, these medallions promise a taste of Ontario's finest culinary craft.

Use a cooking timer to ensure each step is completed with precision and care, allowing the natural flavors to shine through in this beloved regional recipe.