Appetizer > Tart > Cheese Tarts

Queijo do Serro and Caramelized Onion Tart Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pre-made pie crust
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 ounces Queijo do Serro cheese, grated
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

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

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.

2. Roll out the pre-made pie crust on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch tart pan. Gently press the crust into the pan and trim the edges.

3. Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 10 minutes.

4. Remove the parchment paper and weights and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the crust is lightly golden. Set aside to cool.

5. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 20-25 minutes until the onions are caramelized. Set aside to cool.

6. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, and nutmeg.

7. Sprinkle the grated Queijo do Serro cheese over the cooled pie crust. Top with the caramelized onions.

8. Pour the egg mixture over the onions and cheese.

9. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the filling is set and the top is lightly golden.

10. Let the tart cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.


Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories: 300
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 8g
Sodium: 250mg

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Queijo do Serro cheese can be substituted with any semi-hard cheese, such as cheddar or gouda.
- Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half or whole milk.
- Brown sugar can be substituted with honey or maple syrup.

Variations:
- Add cooked bacon or sausage to the tart for a heartier dish.
- Top the tart with sliced tomatoes or roasted red peppers for added flavor and color.

Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to cool the crust and onions before adding the egg mixture to prevent the filling from becoming watery.
- Use a sharp knife to slice the tart for clean, even slices.

Storage instructions:
Leftover tart can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

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

Presentation ideas:
Serve the tart on a platter with fresh herbs or greens for added color and presentation.

Garnishes:
Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, or a sprinkle of paprika for added flavor and color.

Pairings:
Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Grilled asparagus
- Mixed green salad with vinaigrette dressing

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the crust is browning too quickly, cover the edges with foil to prevent burning.
- If the filling is not setting, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until set.

Food safety advice:
- Be sure to cook the onions thoroughly to prevent foodborne illness.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days.

Food history:
Queijo do Serro is a traditional cheese from the region of Serro, in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. It is made from raw cow's milk and has a semi-hard texture and a sharp, tangy flavor.

Flavor profiles:
The tart has a savory and slightly sweet flavor from the caramelized onions and nutmeg, balanced by the sharpness of the Queijo do Serro cheese.

Serving suggestions:
Serve the tart as a main dish for lunch or dinner, or as a savory appetizer for a party or gathering.

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Region: Portuguese

Taste: Savory, Sweet, Tangy, Rich, Caramelized