Savory > Tart > Cheese Tarts

Carlow Sheep Cheddar and Onion Tart Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1/4 cup ice water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 cup Carlow Sheep Cheddar cheese, grated
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

Special equipment needed:
- 9-inch tart pan with removable bottom
- Rolling pin
- Parchment paper
- Pie weights or dried beans

Step-by-step instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Add the cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.

2. Gradually add the ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

3. Preheat the oven to 375°F.

4. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a circle about 1/8 inch thick. Transfer the dough to the tart pan and trim the edges. Line the crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans.

5. Bake the crust for 15 minutes. Remove the parchment paper and weights and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden.

6. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions, salt, pepper, and thyme. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are caramelized and golden brown, about 20 minutes.

7. Spread the caramelized onions over the bottom of the tart crust. Sprinkle the grated Carlow Sheep Cheddar cheese over the onions.

8. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Pour the egg mixture over the onions and cheese.

9. Bake the tart for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown.


Time:
Preparation time: 45 minutes
Cooking time: 50-60 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories: 362
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 161mg
Sodium: 363mg
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 9g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use regular cheddar cheese instead of Carlow Sheep Cheddar.
- You can use a store-bought pie crust instead of making your own.

Variations:
- Add cooked bacon or ham to the tart for extra flavor.
- Substitute the onions with leeks or shallots.
- Use a different type of cheese, such as Gruyere or Parmesan.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to chill the dough before rolling it out to prevent it from shrinking in the oven.
- Blind bake the crust before adding the filling to prevent it from getting soggy.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the tart into slices.

Storage instructions:
Store any leftover tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
Reheat the tart in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
Serve the tart on a platter with a sprig of fresh thyme or parsley for garnish.

Garnishes:
Fresh herbs, such as thyme or parsley.

Pairings:
This tart pairs well with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables.

Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Grilled asparagus
- Mashed sweet potatoes

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the crust is too dry, add a little more ice water until it comes together.
- If the filling is too runny, bake the tart for a few more minutes until it sets.

Food safety advice:
Make sure to cook the onions until they are fully caramelized to prevent any bacteria growth.

Food history:
The use of sheep's milk cheese in Ireland dates back to the 17th century. Carlow Sheep Cheddar is a type of cheese made from the milk of Irish sheep.

Flavor profiles:
This tart has a savory, cheesy flavor with a hint of sweetness from the caramelized onions.

Serving suggestions:
Serve the tart warm or at room temperature with a side salad or roasted vegetables.

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Region: Irish

Taste: Savory, Tangy, Cheesy, Oniony, Rich