Provençal Charcoal Tartine
Introduction
The Provençal Charcoal Tartine is a delightful dish that originates from the Provence region of France. Known for its delicious and simple ingredients, this tartine embodies the essence of rustic French cuisine. The Provence region is famous for its aromatic herbs de Provence, vibrant vegetables, and exquisite olive oil. This tartine, featuring black charcoal bread, brings a modern twist to traditional French open-faced sandwiches. A combination of Mediterranean flavors with a visually striking presentation makes this tartine a must-try dish for culinary enthusiasts. The use of black charcoal bread not only adds drama to the presentation but also offers health benefits as charcoal is known for aiding digestion and detoxification.
Ingredients
- Black Charcoal Bread - 4 slices
- Heirloom Tomatoes - 2 large, sliced
- Buffalo Mozzarella - 200g, sliced
- Fresh Basil Leaves - a handful
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil - 3 tablespoons
- Garlic Cloves - 2, minced
- Herbs de Provence - 1 tablespoon
- Sea Salt - to taste
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper - to taste
- Capers - 2 tablespoons
- Lemon - 1, juiced
Preparation
Preparing the Ingredients
Begin by gathering all the required ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process. Make sure the black charcoal bread is sliced and ready to use. Slice the heirloom tomatoes into thin discs and set them aside. Slice the buffalo mozzarella and place it next to the tomatoes. Rinse the fresh basil leaves under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. Mince the garlic cloves finely.
Assembling the Tartine
- Start by laying the black charcoal bread slices on a clean, flat surface.
- Drizzle each slice with a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil.
- Rub the minced garlic evenly across the surface of each slice for an aromatic base flavor.
- Layer the heirloom tomato slices, followed by buffalo mozzarella on each tartine.
- Sprinkle herbs de Provence over the top, adding an authentic Provençal aroma.
- Season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Finally, sprinkle capers on top and add a few fresh basil leaves for color and flavor.
Cooking
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the assembled tartines on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake the tartines in the preheated oven for approximately 10 minutes or until the mozzarella has melted and is slightly golden brown. Keep an eye on the tartines to prevent the bread from burning. Once baked, remove from the oven and drizzle with freshly squeezed lemon juice before serving for a zesty finish.
Serving Suggestions
To enjoy this Provençal Charcoal Tartine at its best, serve it warm immediately after baking. This tartine pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed in olive oil and lemon. A chilled glass of white wine or rosé would complement the Mediterranean flavors wonderfully. This dish is perfect for a light lunch or as an appetizer at a dinner party.
Conclusion
The Provençal Charcoal Tartine is a lovely amalgamation of modern aesthetics and traditional flavors. The use of visual elements such as black charcoal bread captivates at first glance, while the rich flavors of heirloom tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella, and herbs de Provence ensure an unforgettable taste experience. This recipe is sure to become a favorite for those who appreciate the sophistication of French cuisine combined with the comfort of a homemade meal.