Tamarind Aquitaine Tartine

Introduction to Tamarind Aquitaine Tartine

The Tamarind Aquitaine Tartine is a delightful fusion dish that embodies the rich culinary traditions of two regions. Combining the tangy flavors of tamarind with the classic French open-faced sandwich style, this tartine is a beautiful representation of cross-cultural cuisine. The dish's roots can be traced back to the traditional use of tamarind in Southeast Asian and Indian cooking, while the tartine itself is a staple in the French region of Aquitaine, known for its exceptional quality of bread and innovative culinary techniques.

This tartine is perfect for a light lunch or as an appetizer at a dinner party, offering a unique taste experience that balances sweet and sour flavors with rich and creamy textures.

Ingredients

• Sourdough bread - 4 slices
• Tamarind paste - 2 tablespoons
• Butter - 2 tablespoons
• Goat cheese - 100 grams
• Honey - 1 tablespoon
• Fresh figs - 4, cut into thin slices
• Walnuts - 1/4 cup, chopped
• Arugula - A handful
• Olive oil - 1 tablespoon
• Sea salt - To taste
• Black pepper - To taste

Preparation

To create the Tamarind Aquitaine Tartine, begin with the preparation of each component to ensure nothing disrupts the flow of assembling your tartine:

Sourdough Bread

Start by selecting a high-quality sourdough bread. The bread’s natural tang and chewy texture make it a perfect base for our tartine. Slice four pieces evenly, about 1.5 cm thick.

Tamarind Paste

If using store-bought tamarind paste, make sure it is smooth. However, if you prefer to make your own, soak tamarind pulp in warm water, strain to remove seeds and fibers, and reduce the liquid over low heat until thickened.

Goat Cheese Mix

In a small bowl, mix goat cheese with honey until smooth. This combination adds creaminess and a hint of sweetness to complement the tart tamarind.

Assembling the Tartine

Once all the ingredients are prepared, it's time to assemble your tartine:

1. Toast each slice of sourdough bread until they are golden brown. While warm, spread each slice generously with butter.
2. Spread a layer of tamarind paste over the butter. Be generous, as this is the core flavor of the tartine.
3. Add a dollop of the goat cheese mixture on top of the tamarind, ensuring it covers the entire slice.
4. Arrange fresh fig slices elegantly over the goat cheese.
5. Sprinkle chopped walnuts for a crunchy texture.
6. Top with a handful of arugula for a peppery contrast.
7. Drizzle each tartine with olive oil and season with sea salt and black pepper to taste.

Enjoying Tamarind Aquitaine Tartine

This delightful tartine is best enjoyed fresh, ensuring the crisp texture of the bread and freshness of the other ingredients are savored. Pair this dish with a glass of dry white wine, such as a Bordeaux from the Aquitaine region, to enhance the complex flavors of the tartine.

Invite friends over and serve Tamarind Aquitaine Tartine as part of a brunch spread or cut into smaller pieces for a delightful appetizer. This dish embodies an elegant simplicity that speaks to the culinary heritage of its ingredients, offering a taste experience that is both delightful and sophisticated.

For larger gatherings, consider preparing a small cooking timer to help coordinate multiple tartines, ensuring each is warm and freshly assembled before serving.