Tomato-and-Cheese Cobbler

Ingredients for Tomato-and-Cheese Cobbler

• 1.1kg mixed heirloom tomatoes, cored, sliced 1/4" thick

• 1 tablespoon plus 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt

• 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper

• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoons bicarbonate of soda

• 190g plain flour, plus more for surface

• 5 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into 1/2" pieces

• 2/3 cup buttermilk

• 1/4 cup finely chopped chives

• 110g coarsely grated sharp cheddar (about 350ml ), divided

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

• 6 sprigs thyme

• 1 large egg

Preheat oven to 204°C. Gently toss tomato slices with 1 tablespoon salt in a medium bowl, then arrange in an even layer on paper towels. Let sit until most of the juices are released, about 15 minutes. Pat tomatoes dry with more paper towels.

Meanwhile, whisk pepper, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda, 190g flour, and 1/2 teaspoons salt in a large bowl to combine. Cut in butter with a pastry cutter or 2 butter knives until pea-size pieces form. Stir in buttermilk, chives, and 3/4 cup cheese with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.

Turn out dough onto a lightly floured work surface. Gently knead 2–3 times until dough just comes together, being careful not to overwork. Roll out dough to 3/4" thick. Cut with a 2" flour-dipped biscuit cutter or small glass. Transfer to a plate or baking sheet and chill until ready to use.

Pour oil into a large deep heatproof skillet or braising dish. Arrange tomato slices in even layers in pan (you’ll have about 3 layers); top with thyme. Roast until tomato juices start to bubble, 15–20 minutes.

Discard thyme sprigs. Flatten tomatoes into an even layer with a spatula, then sprinkle with remaining 90g cheese. Arrange biscuits over, spacing about 1" apart. Whisk egg and 1 tablespoon water in a small bowl. Brush biscuits with egg wash. Bake until biscuits are golden brown and firm to the touch, 18–20 minutes. Let cool 5–10 minutes before serving.

Do Ahead: Dough can be formed into biscuits 8 hours ahead. Keep chilled.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.