Recipe: Caramelized Onion and Blue Cheese Tartlets

Introduction

Ingredients

For the pastry:

For the filling:

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the pastry

Step 2: Caramelize the onions

Step 3: Assemble the tartlets

Step 4: Bake and serve

Tips and Variations

Tips:

Variations:

Conclusion

Introduction

Caramelized Onion and Blue Cheese Tartlets are a delicious appetizer or snack that combines the sweetness of caramelized onions with the bold flavor of blue cheese. These tartlets are perfect for parties, gatherings, or even as a light lunch. The combination of flavors and textures in this recipe is sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients

For the pastry:

– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

– ½ teaspoon salt

– ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

– 1 egg yolk

– 2 tablespoons ice water

For the filling:

– 2 large onions, thinly sliced

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 1 tablespoon brown sugar

– ¼ cup balsamic vinegar

– ½ cup crumbled blue cheese

– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the pastry

1. In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt together.

2. Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.

3. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and ice water.

4. Gradually pour the egg mixture into the flour mixture, stirring with a fork until the dough comes together.

5. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Caramelize the onions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and golden brown, about 20-25 minutes.

3. Sprinkle the brown sugar over the onions and continue cooking for another 5 minutes.

4. Pour in the balsamic vinegar and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring constantly.

5. Remove from heat and let the caramelized onions cool.

Step 3: Assemble the tartlets

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Roll out the chilled pastry dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼ inch thickness.

3. Use a round cookie cutter or a glass to cut out circles from the dough.

4. Place the dough circles into greased tartlet pans or a muffin tin, pressing them gently to fit.

5. Spoon a small amount of caramelized onions into each tartlet shell.

6. Top each tartlet with crumbled blue cheese.

Step 4: Bake and serve

1. Place the tartlets on a baking sheet and bake for about 15-18 minutes, or until the pastry turns golden brown and the cheese melts.

2. Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.

3. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves before serving.

4. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips and Variations

Tips:

– Make sure to slice the onions thinly and cook them slowly over medium heat to achieve the perfect caramelization.

– You can make the pastry dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before using.

– If you don’t have tartlet pans, you can use a regular muffin tin instead.

Variations:

– Add some crispy bacon or pancetta to the filling for an extra savory twist.

– Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans on top of the tartlets for added crunch.

– Substitute the blue cheese with goat cheese or feta if you prefer milder flavors.

Conclusion

Caramelized Onion and Blue Cheese Tartlets are a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. These bite-sized treats are perfect for any occasion and are guaranteed to impress your guests. With a buttery pastry crust, caramelized onions, and tangy blue cheese, these tartlets are a true crowd-pleaser. Give this recipe a try and elevate your appetizer game!