Camargue Farmhouse Tart

The Camargue Farmhouse Tart is a delightful culinary creation that hails from the Camargue region in the south of France. Known for its pristine landscapes and rich culinary heritage, this dish features an assortment of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients that embody the essence of Provencal cuisine. Traditionally, this tart would have been made using ingredients readily available on a French farmhouse, celebrating the rustic flavors of the land.

Ingredients

• Camargue red rice - 100g
• Bacon - 100g, diced
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Onion - 1, finely chopped
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Zucchini - 1, sliced thinly
• Tomato - 1, chopped
• Egg - 3 medium
• Heavy cream - 100ml
• Gruyere cheese - 50g, grated
• Fresh thyme - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste
• Tart crust - 1 pre-made (or homemade)

Preparation

Before beginning the preparation of the Camargue Farmhouse Tart, it's important to ensure all your ingredients are ready and within reach. Measure and prepare all the ingredients as listed above.

Step 1: Preparing the Camargue Red Rice

Rinse the Camargue red rice under cold water. In a pot, bring a sufficient amount of water to a boil. Add the rice and cook for about 20 minutes or until it is tender. Drain and set aside to cool.

Step 2: Cooking the Filling

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced bacon and cook until slightly crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the grease in the skillet. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté until the onion is translucent.

Next, add the sliced zucchini and chopped tomato to the skillet. Sauté briefly until they are tender. Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Creating the Egg Mixture

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and heavy cream until well combined. Stir in the grated Gruyere cheese, cooked bacon, and fresh thyme. Combine this mixture with the rice and vegetable sauté.

Assembling and Baking the Tart

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Prepare your tart crust in a tart pan. Pour the filling evenly into the crust, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Place the tart in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling has set.

Monitor the time with a cooking timer to ensure perfect results.

Serving Suggestions

Allow the Camargue Farmhouse Tart to cool slightly before slicing. It pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad and a glass of white wine for a complete meal. This tart embodies the robust flavors of the French countryside, perfect for family gatherings or a special occasion dinner.

Remember to savor each bite slowly, appreciating the harmony of flavors and textures that make this dish a true testament to the art of rustic cooking.