Onion Tarte Tatin

Onion Tarte Tatin is a delightful twist on the classic French dessert, using caramelized onions instead of apples. It's savory, rich, and perfect as a starter or a light main dish. Here's how you can make it:

Ingredients

Pastry:

-        1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)

Filling:

-        6-8 medium onions, peeled and halved (if desired use a mix of red, yellow, and white for color and flavor variation)

-        3 tablespoons unsalted butter

-        2 tablespoons olive oil

-        3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

-        2 tablespoons sugar (brown sugar preferred for a deeper flavor)

-        3 pieces of fresh thyme leaves (optional)

-        Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

-        100g crumbled goat cheese or feta (optional)

-        Fresh parsley or chives, chopped, for garnish (optional)

DIRECTIONS

1.      Prepare the Pastry:

-        If using store-bought puff pastry, thaw it according to the package instructions. Roll it out slightly to fit your pan, with some overhang. Keep it in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.

2.      Caramelize the Onions:

-        Preheat your oven to 375°F.

-        In an oven-safe skillet (preferably cast iron, about 10 inches in diameter), heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat.

-        Add the onion halves, cut side down. Let them cook undisturbed for about 10 minutes, or until they start to caramelize and turn golden brown.

-        Sprinkle the sugar evenly over the onions and let it dissolve and caramelize, stirring gently. Add the balsamic vinegar, salt, pepper, and fresh thyme (if using). Continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the onions to soak in the flavors and the liquid to reduce slightly.

3.      Assemble the Tarte Tatin:

-        Once the onions are well caramelized, remove the skillet from heat. If the onions are unevenly caramelized, gently rearrange them so they are evenly distributed.

-        Carefully place the puff pastry over the onions, tucking the edges around them and into the sides of the skillet.

-        Prick the pastry all over with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking.

4.      Bake:

-        Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.

5.      Finish and Serve:

-        Remove the skillet from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.

-        Run a knife around the edge to loosen the pastry. Place a large plate or serving platter over the skillet and carefully invert the tart onto the plate.

-        If using, sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese or feta over the top, and garnish with fresh parsley or chives.

6.      Serve:

-        Serve warm as an appetizer, side dish, or light main course. It pairs beautifully with a crisp salad.

Bon appetite. 

Forough & Le Bon Nosh Team