Indulge in Savoury Bliss with Cheese & Caramelised Onion Tartlets
There are few treats more satisfying than the combination of rich, tangy cheese melded with the sweet depth of caramelised onions. These mini tartlets encapsulate that perfect harmony in every bite. With their buttery pastry and decadent filling, Cheese & Caramelised Onion Tartlets are sure to elevate any gathering or meal with their irresistibly delicious flavours. This recipe is simple yet sophisticated, making it an ideal choice for a special appetizer or snack. Let’s dive into the process of creating these delectable mini delights and impress your guests with your culinary skills.
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Ingredients:
– 250g ready-rolled shortcrust pastry
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 50g butter
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp sugar
– 100g grated cheddar cheese
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 150ml double cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Creating the Flavourful Base: Caramelised Onions
1. Prepare the Onions: Heat the butter and olive oil in a pan over low heat.
2. Caramelize the Onions: Add the thinly sliced onions to the pan and cook gently for 10-15 minutes until they turn golden.
3. Add the Sweetness: Sprinkle the sugar over the onions and continue cooking for another 5 minutes until they become amber and sweet.
4. Set Aside: Allow the caramelised onions to cool while you prepare the pastry.
Crafting the Crispy Base: Shortcrust Pastry
1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 180°C/160°C fan/gas 4.
2. Shape the Pastry: Roll out the shortcrust pastry and use a cutter to create circles slightly larger than your tartlet tins.
3. Line the Tins: Press the pastry circles into the greased tartlet tins, ensuring there are no gaps or tears.
4. Blind Bake: Line the pastry with baking parchment and fill with baking beans. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove the beans and parchment and bake for a further 5 minutes to crisp up the base.
Bringing the Flavours Together: Filling and Baking
1. Layer the Ingredients: Spoon the caramelised onions into the pastry cases, then sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese on top.
2. Mix the Custard: In a bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, double cream, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Pour and Bake: Carefully pour the custard mixture into each tartlet, ensuring not to overfill.
4. Finish with Freshness: Garnish each tartlet with a few fresh thyme leaves for a final touch of flavour.
5. Bake to Perfection: Place the tartlets in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the filling is set and the pastry is golden brown.
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These Cheese & Caramelised Onion Tartlets are a delightful combination of sweet and savoury flavours that are bound to impress. Whether served as a elegant starter or a tempting snack, these mini delights are sure to disappear quickly. So, why not try your hand at making these tantalising tartlets and savour the exquisite taste of each bite.