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Delicious French Onion Tarte Tatin: An Upside-Down Treat

If you’re looking to impress your friends or family with a unique twist on traditional savory tarts, look no further! This French Onion Tarte Tatin offers a delightful blend of caramelized onions, crispy puff pastry, and the option of rich cheese for those who love it. Best of all, this recipe is simple, utilizing ready-made puff pastry to save time without compromising flavor.

Ingredients

4 large onions (red or yellow)
1 packet (230g) ready-rolled puff pastry, all butter
25 g (1oz or 2 tbsp) unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 sprig fresh rosemary or thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried Herbes de Provence)
Handful of walnuts
Pinch of salt & pepper
100 g (4oz or ½ cup) goat’s cheese or comté (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Onions

Begin by peeling the onions and slicing them thinly. In a non-stick frying pan (that can be transferred to the oven), melt the butter and olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and cook them gently until they turn translucent. Cover and let them simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal here is to let the onions soften and start to naturally sweeten without burning.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

While the onions are cooking, preheat your oven to 200°C (or 180°C fan/Gas mark 6). This will ensure the perfect baking conditions for your tart.

Step 3: Season and Transfer

Once the onions are soft, stir in your choice of freshly chopped herbs or a teaspoon of dried Herbes de Provence. Season the mixture with salt and pepper, then transfer the onions to a round cake pan if you haven’t used one already. If desired, slice the goat cheese into three parts per serving and arrange it on top of the caramelized onions.

Step 4: Puff Pastry Top

Roll out the puff pastry over the onions, tucking the edges into the sides of the pan. It’s important to prick the pastry with a fork to prevent it from puffing up too much during baking. Place your tart in the oven and bake for around 30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and flaky. If you’re making mini versions, check them a little earlier.

Step 5: Serve

Once baked, carefully take the tart out of the oven. Place a serving plate over the top and gently invert the tart onto the plate. The onions should now be on top, glistening with caramelization, creating a beautiful presentation.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This dish is great for entertaining—prepare it ahead of time! Bake your tart for up to 25 minutes until it’s lightly golden, then allow it to cool. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat in the oven for about 10 minutes. This method ensures that you can enjoy your guests’ company without the stress of last-minute cooking.

The Story Behind Tarte Tatin

The origins of Tarte Tatin trace back to the late 19th century, where it first emerged from the kitchens of the Tatin sisters in France. Legend has it that a mishap in the kitchen (such as caramelizing apples too much or forgetting the pastry) led to this delectable treat being invented. They took the upside-down approach, making it a delightful mistake that turned into a beloved classic!

Serving Suggestions

This delightful dish pairs beautifully with a simple salad—try a fresh mix of lamb’s lettuce drizzled with olive or walnut oil. If you’re craving something heartier, bacon bits or black pudding can elevate the dish into something luxurious!

Pairing Wines with Onion Tatin

When it comes to wine, lean towards fruity whites from the Languedoc or Provence, or grab a chilled rosé. A Sauvignon Blanc from the Loire Valley will be a perfect match, enhancing the flavor of both the caramelized onions and the goat cheese.