Potato and kaiser tart

Potato and kaiser tart is a wonderful choice for anyone looking to impress at the table. This delicious combination of creamy potatoes, caramelized onions, and smoked bacon, all wrapped in a flaky crust, transforms each slice into a true explosion of flavors. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, this tart will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40-45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients:

- 250 g flour + 2 tablespoons (for thickening the sauce)
- 120 g butter (diced) + 50 g (for the sauce)
- 350 ml milk
- 50 ml warm water
- 6-7 small potatoes (about 800 g)
- 2 red onions (sliced)
- 3 tablespoons oil
- 300 g smoked bacon (chopped)
- 2 eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe History

The potato and kaiser tart has its roots in the culinary traditions of various cultures where potato dishes are extremely popular. This recipe is a modern variant inspired by moussaka recipes, combining the crispy texture of the crust with a rich and hearty filling. It offers remarkable versatility, being enjoyable both warm and cold, making it perfect for parties or family meals.

Preparing the Dough

1. Mixing the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine 250 g of flour with a pinch of salt. Add the diced 120 g of butter and, using a mixer or your fingertips, mix until you achieve a texture similar to wet sand.

2. Adding Water
Gradually add 50 ml of warm water, mixing continuously. When the dough starts to come together, knead it gently until it becomes elastic. Form a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 10 minutes. This step will make the dough easier to roll out.

Preparing the Filling

3. Preparing the Potatoes
Peel the potatoes and slice them into thin rounds about 5 mm thick. This will allow the potatoes to cook evenly.

4. Sautéing the Onions
In a skillet, add the 3 tablespoons of oil and heat over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté for about 2 minutes until it becomes translucent.

5. Adding the Potatoes
Place the potato rounds in the skillet, add 4-5 tablespoons of water, and cover with a lid. Let them cook on low heat for 5 minutes. This step will help the potatoes become softer and absorb the flavors of the onion.

Preparing the Sauce

6. Making the White Sauce
In another skillet, melt the remaining 50 g of butter over low heat. Add 2 tablespoons of flour and stir constantly for one minute. Then, gradually add the milk, continuing to stir to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens, then turn off the heat and let it cool for 5 minutes. Add a beaten egg and mix well.

Assembling the Tart

7. Rolling Out the Dough
Remove the dough from the refrigerator and roll it out on a floured surface. You should get a thin sheet large enough to cover the bottom and edges of a tart pan.

8. Assembling the Tart
Place the dough sheet in the tart pan, ensuring it touches the edges. Pour the white sauce on top, followed by the chopped bacon, sautéed onions, and finally, the potato rounds arranged in overlapping circles.

9. Brushing with Egg
Beat the other egg and brush it over the tart. This step will give the tart a golden and appetizing crust.

Baking

10. Baking the Tart
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Bake the tart for 40-45 minutes or until it becomes golden and nicely browned. Delicious aromas will start filling your kitchen, bringing your guests closer to the table.

Serving

The potato and kaiser tart can be served warm or cold. You can accompany it with a fresh green salad or a yogurt sauce with dill, which will perfectly complement the flavors. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine or a refreshing lemonade are excellent options to accompany this dish.

Possible Variations

- You can experiment with different types of meat, such as ham or sausages, instead of bacon.
- Add grated cheese, such as cheddar or feta, to the filling for an extra flavor boost.
- Replace the potatoes with zucchini or eggplant for a vegetarian version.

Useful Tips

- Ensure that all ingredients are at room temperature before starting the preparation to achieve a uniform dough and well-integrated filling.
- If the dough becomes too sticky, you can add a little flour, but be careful not to add too much.
- You can prepare the tart a day in advance, and the next day it will be just as delicious!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pre-cooked potatoes?
Yes, you can use cooked and cooled potatoes, but make sure they are sliced thinly to integrate well into the tart.

2. How can I store the tart to keep it fresh?
The tart stores well in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven before serving to restore its crispy texture.

3. Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
If you replace the bacon with mushrooms or vegetables and omit the eggs from the sauce, you can adapt the recipe for a vegetarian version.

The potato and kaiser tart is more than just a dish – it is a culinary experience that blends tradition and innovation, perfect for bringing family and friends together around the table. Dare to prepare it and savor every slice!