Mariusz Lewandowski
Rustic French Onion Tart: A Savory Delight with Rich, Caramelized Onions and Flaky Pastry
The Rustic French Onion Tart is a charming, hearty dish that speaks to the soul of traditional French cuisine. Born from the flavorful heartlands of France, this savory tart is a celebration of humble ingredients elevated to gourmet status. Its origins are deeply rooted in the Alsace region, where onions are a staple, and straightforward cooking methods transform them into something magical.
Picture a golden, flaky pastry base supporting a blanket of deeply caramelized onions, their natural sweetness enhanced by a touch of balsamic vinegar and thyme. As the tart bakes, your kitchen fills with the comforting, aromatic promise of a satisfying meal. Perfect for brunches, casual lunches, or as a standout appetizer at dinner parties, this tart pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine or a light, fruity red.
Ingredients:
– Pastry:
– 1 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup ice cold water
– Filling:
– 4 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
– 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pastry:
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the butter pieces, rubbing them into the flour with your fingertips until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
– Gradually add the ice-cold water, mixing until the dough starts to come together. Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Cook the Onions:
– Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt.
– Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions become soft and start to caramelize, about 25-30 minutes.
– Stir in the balsamic vinegar and thyme, cooking for another 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
3. Assemble the Tart:
– Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface into a circle about 12 inches in diameter. Transfer it to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
– Spread the caramelized onions evenly over the pastry, leaving a 2-inch border around the edges.
– Sprinkle the grated Gruyère cheese over the onions.
– Fold the edges of the pastry over the filling, creating a rustic border.
4. Bake the Tart:
– Brush the beaten egg over the folded edges of the pastry.
– Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
– Allow the tart to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh thyme.
Cooking Tips and Serving Suggestions:
– For a twist, add a handful of cooked bacon or pancetta to the onion mixture before baking.
– This tart pairs perfectly with a light, crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon and olive oil.
– A glass of chilled Pinot Gris or a fruity Beaujolais complements the flavors beautifully.
This Rustic French Onion Tart is a kitchen staple that captures the essence of French culinary artistry, providing comfort and sophistication in each bite. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet meal, this dish invites you to savor the simple pleasures of taste and tradition.
