Osaka Tsukemono Tart

Background and History

Osaka Tsukemono Tart is a delightful fusion dish that combines the traditional flavors of Japanese pickles with a Western-style tart. Tsukemono, or Japanese pickles, are an integral part of Japanese cuisine known for their tangy and crisp flavors. Originating from the practice of preserving vegetables, tsukemono offer a unique taste profile that perfectly complements the flaky crust of a tart. This dish pays homage to the culinary diversity of Osaka, known as the "Kitchen of Japan", where food innovation thrives.

Ingredients

• Flour - 2 cups
• Butter - 1/2 cup, chilled and cubed
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Water - 1/4 cup, ice-cold
• Japanese Eggplant - 1/2 cup, sliced and pickled
• Daikon - 1/2 cup, sliced and pickled
• Carrot - 1/4 cup, julienned and pickled
• Red Cabbage - 1/4 cup, shredded and pickled
• Sugar - 1 tablespoon
• Rice Vinegar - 1/2 cup
• Sesame Oil - 1 teaspoon
• Sesame Seeds - 1 tablespoon
• Cream Cheese - 1/2 cup, softened
• Soy Sauce - 2 tablespoons
• Mirin - 1 tablespoon
• Miso - 1 tablespoon

Preparation

Step 1: Making the Pickles

Combine sugar and rice vinegar in a small saucepan and heat gently until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and let cool. In a bowl, mix Japanese Eggplant, daikon, carrot, and red cabbage with the vinegar mixture. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to pickle.

Step 2: Preparing the Tart Crust

In a bowl, mix flour and salt. Add the chilled butter cubes and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice-cold water, stirring just until the dough holds together. Form into a disk, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Cooking Process

Step 3: Baking the Tart Shell

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to fit a tart pan. Fit the dough into the pan and trim any excess. Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the weights and bake 10-15 minutes longer until golden brown. Allow to cool.

Step 4: Preparing the Filling

In a bowl, combine cream cheese, soy sauce, mirin, and miso. Mix until smooth. Spread this mixture evenly over the cooled tart shell.

Step 5: Assembling the Tart

Drain the pickled vegetables thoroughly. Arrange them atop the cream cheese mixture artistically, alternating colors and shapes. Drizzle sesame oil over the top and sprinkle with sesame seeds.

Enjoying Your Osaka Tsukemono Tart

Allow your Osaka Tsukemono Tart to rest for a few minutes so the flavors meld beautifully. Slice and serve as either an appetizer or as part of a light meal. Pair with a cup of green tea or a glass of chilled sake to fully appreciate the complementary flavors. Set a cooking timer when baking to ensure perfection in every bite.