Introduction
The French Onion Tart is a delicious and elegant dish inspired by the flavors of classic French onion soup. With a flaky pastry crust, caramelized onions, and a rich, cheesy topping, this tart is perfect for brunch, lunch, or as an appetizer for a dinner party. Whether you’re a fan of French cuisine or simply love savory pastries, this recipe is sure to impress!
Ingredients
For the Pastry:
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 3 to 4 tablespoons ice water
For the Onion Filling:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 large onions, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon thyme (fresh or dried)
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup Gruyère cheese, grated
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pastry Dough
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
- Add cubed butter and mix with your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together.
- Form the dough into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Caramelize the Onions
- In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium-low heat.
- Add the sliced onions, salt, pepper, and thyme.
- Cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until onions are deep golden brown.
- Stir in balsamic vinegar and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
Step 3: Roll Out the Pastry and Pre-Bake
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to fit a tart pan.
- Press the dough into the pan and prick the bottom with a fork.
- Line with parchment paper and add baking weights or dried beans.
- Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the parchment and weights and bake for another 5 minutes.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake the Tart
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs and heavy cream.
- Stir in the caramelized onions and Gruyère cheese.
- Pour the mixture into the pre-baked tart crust and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the filling is set and golden brown.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm or at room temperature with a light salad and a glass of white wine.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives for extra flavor.
- Enjoy as a brunch dish, appetizer, or light dinner.
Conclusion
This French Onion Tart is a perfect combination of buttery crust, sweet caramelized onions, and creamy cheese. It’s a must-try for fans of French cuisine and makes a great dish for any occasion. Try it today and bring a taste of France to your table! 🇫🇷🥧
