Onion Tart

Onion Tart - A Savory Delight

Onion tart is a classic dish that brings together the simple yet enticing flavors of its basic ingredients. This recipe is not just a culinary treat, but a story in itself, taking us through culinary traditions that have remained unchanged over time. It’s perfect for a family meal or a gathering with friends, featuring that rustic charm that makes us feel at home. Plus, it’s a simple recipe with exquisite taste.

Total preparation time: 2 hours
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 250 g all-purpose flour (or 180 g all-purpose flour and 70 g whole wheat flour)
- 1 teaspoon dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 170 ml lukewarm water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the filling:
- 500 g onions (about 7 medium onions)
- 50 g butter
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 2 eggs
- 100 ml heavy cream (unsweetened)
- salt and pepper (to taste)
- 100 g smoked sausage (optional, but recommended for extra flavor)
- cumin (to taste)

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preparing the dough:
In a cup, mix the yeast with the sugar and a teaspoon of flour. Add 100 ml of lukewarm water and let the mixture rise for about 10 minutes. This is an essential step to ensure a fluffy texture for the tart.

2. Mixing the ingredients:
In a large bowl, place the flour and mix it with the salt. Make a well in the center of the flour and pour in the risen yeast. Start kneading by hand, gradually adding the remaining lukewarm water. Finally, add the olive oil.

3. Kneading the dough:
Continue kneading until the dough no longer sticks to your fingers. It should be elastic and smooth. Sprinkle a little flour on top, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place, away from drafts, for about 1 hour.

4. Preparing the filling:
Peel and wash the onions, then chop them finely. In a skillet, melt the butter and add the onions. Sauté the onions until they become translucent, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Remove from heat and add a tablespoon of flour, mixing well. Allow the filling to cool.

5. Finalizing the filling:
Once the filling has cooled, add the heavy cream and beaten eggs. Season with salt and pepper, then mix well to achieve a uniform composition.

6. Forming the tart:
Dust your work surface with flour and roll out the dough into a round shape, ensuring it is slightly larger than the baking dish. Place the dough in a buttered baking dish, pouring the filling evenly over the entire surface.

7. Adding the sausage:
Cut the smoked sausage into small pieces and distribute them evenly over the filling. Sprinkle cumin on top for an extra layer of flavor.

8. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 175-180°C. Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, then place the dish in the oven. Bake for 30-40 minutes, until the edges of the tart turn golden and crispy.

9. Serving:
Remove the tart from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing. It is delicious both warm and cold. You can serve it with a fresh green salad or a yogurt sauce to complement the flavors.

Practical tips and variations

- Ingredients: You can use red onions for a sweeter taste or green onions for a fresher note. Additionally, you can add cottage cheese or feta cheese to the filling for extra creaminess.
- Cooking technique: Ensure the onions are well sautéed but not burnt to achieve a flavorful filling.
- Variations: You can experiment with different types of sausages—even vegetarian sausages—or skip the meat altogether by adding more vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers.
- Serving: The tart can be paired with a glass of white wine or a light beer, which will enhance the flavors.

Nutritional information

A serving of onion tart contains approximately 350 calories, with a decent amount of protein and carbohydrates, making it an excellent choice for a hearty meal. Onions are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties, while olive oil adds healthy fats to the diet.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, whole wheat flour will add a pleasant flavor, but the dough will be denser. You can combine whole wheat flour with all-purpose flour for an optimal result.

2. How can I store the tart?
The onion tart keeps well in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the oven to restore its crispiness.

3. Is it possible to freeze the tart?
Yes, you can freeze the tart before baking. Make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap and place it in the freezer. It can be baked directly from the freezer, but the baking time will be longer.

This onion tart recipe will not only impress with its taste but will also bring a sense of comfort and familiarity. Preparing it can become a delightful activity to share with loved ones, and the result will always be a joy for the taste buds. So don’t hesitate to try this delicacy!