If you're in the mood for a savory and indulgent treat, look no further than a cheese and caramelised onion tart. This delightful dish combines the rich flavors of caramelized onions with the creamy goodness of cheese, all nestled in a flaky pastry crust. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply craving a comforting meal, this tart is sure to satisfy your taste buds. In this article, we'll guide you through the process of creating this mouthwatering masterpiece from scratch. So, let's roll up our sleeves and get started!
Table of Contents
- Making the Perfect Pastry
- Rolling Out the Pastry
- Preparing the Caramelised Onions
- Baking the Pastry
- Creating the Filling
- Assembling the Tart
- Baking to Perfection
- Cooling and Serving
- Storage Tips
- Conclusion
1. Making the Perfect Pastry
The foundation of any great tart is a flaky and buttery pastry crust. To make the perfect pastry, you'll need some flour, butter, and an egg. Start by combining the flour and butter in a bowl, using your fingertips to rub them together until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs. Once the flour and butter are well incorporated, add the egg and mix everything together using your hands until just combined. Shape the dough into a disc and wrap it in cling film. You can then chill the pastry for up to two days or freeze it for later use.
2. Rolling Out the Pastry
Before we can assemble our tart, we need to roll out the pastry. On a lightly floured surface, roll the pastry into a disc that measures approximately 28cm in diameter. You can use a rolling pin to lift the pastry over a 23cm tart tin, then gently drape it over the tin. Use your fingertips or a small ball of pastry scraps to press the pastry into the base and up the sides of the tin, allowing the excess to hang over the edges. This will ensure that our tart has a beautiful and rustic appearance. Place the tart tin in the fridge to chill for about 20 minutes. If you prefer, you can prepare the tin lined with the pastry and chill it up to a day ahead.
3. Preparing the Caramelised Onions
While the pastry chills, we can start preparing the star ingredient of our tart – the caramelised onions. Begin by melting some butter in a pan over low to medium heat. Add the onions and generously season them with salt. Cook the onions for approximately 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become sticky and golden brown. The slow cooking process allows the natural sugars in the onions to develop, resulting in a sweet and savory flavor. Once the onions are caramelized to perfection, pour in some cream and add a touch of nutmeg for a subtle hint of warmth. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer before removing it from the heat.
4. Baking the Pastry
Now it's time to bake the pastry. Preheat your oven to 200C/180C fan/gas 6. Lightly prick the base of the tart all over with a fork to prevent it from puffing up during baking. Line the pastry with a large circle of baking parchment and fill it with baking beans, dried rice, or pulses. These weights will help keep the pastry flat while it bakes. Place the tart tin in the oven and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the beans and parchment and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the pastry turns a light golden brown. To ensure the pastry is thoroughly cooked, break off a small piece of the overhanging crust. It should be crumbly and cooked through.
5. Creating the Filling
While the pastry cools, let's move on to creating the delicious filling for our tart. Stir the egg yolks into the caramelised onion and cream mixture until well combined. Next, fold in two-thirds of the cheese, allowing it to melt into the creamy onion mixture. The combination of the creamy filling and the sweet onions creates a delectable contrast of flavors. This filling will perfectly complement the buttery pastry crust.
6. Assembling the Tart
Now that our pastry is baked and our filling is prepared, it's time to assemble the tart. Carefully pour the onion and cheese filling into the prepared pastry case. Spread it evenly, ensuring that every bite will be filled with the delightful combination of flavors. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, adding an extra layer of gooey goodness. This final touch will create a golden and slightly crispy crust on the surface of the tart.
7. Baking to Perfection
Place the assembled tart back in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is just set and the cheese turns a beautiful golden hue. The aroma that fills your kitchen will be simply irresistible. Keep a close eye on the tart during the last few minutes to prevent it from overcooking. The perfect tart will have a slightly wobbly center and a golden crust.
8. Cooling and Serving
Once the tart is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the tin. This will ensure that the filling sets properly and the flavors meld together. Once cooled, use a serrated knife to trim any overhanging pastry around the edges. This step will give your tart a clean and professional finish. If desired, sprinkle some freshly chopped chives and additional cheese on top for an extra burst of flavor and visual appeal. Now, it's time to slice the tart and serve it to eager guests or savor it for yourself.
9. Storage Tips
If you have any leftovers, you'll be happy to know that this tart can be stored for up to two days. Simply place it in an airtight container and keep it chilled in the refrigerator. Before serving the leftovers, reheat them in a low oven to ensure that the tart is warm and the cheese is gooey.
10. Conclusion
In conclusion, a cheese and caramelised onion tart is a culinary masterpiece that combines the richness of caramelized onions with the creamy indulgence of cheese, all nestled in a flaky pastry crust. With its sweet and savory flavors, this tart is sure to be a hit at any gathering or as a comforting treat for yourself. By following the simple steps outlined in this article, you can easily create your own version of this delectable dish. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to indulge in the irresistible flavors of a cheese and caramelised onion tart.