Tarry Tartine

Background and History

The Tarry Tartine is a delightful creation that roots itself in the rich tradition of French cuisine, which emphasizes simplicity and the quality of ingredients. The word "tartine" itself refers to an open-faced sandwich, a classic staple in French households, often served for breakfast or as a light meal. Originating from the rural regions of France, the tartine provides a versatile base—usually a slice of rustic bread—topped with a diverse array of ingredients, from simple butter to more elaborate combinations like cheese, meats, and fresh produce. The Tarry Tartine has evolved to incorporate unique, rich flavors, bringing the traditional tartine to modern tastebuds while retaining its essential nature. This version balances the savory, sweet, and tangy flavors using earthy mushrooms, creamy goat cheese, sweet caramelized onions, and spicy arugula. Enjoying a Tarry Tartine is not just a culinary experience but also a nostalgic journey to rural France, where simple ingredients and techniques highlight complex flavors.

Ingredients

• Rustic Bread - 4 slices
• Mushrooms (any variety) - 200g
• Goat Cheese - 100g
• Olive Oil - 2 tablespoons
• Butter - 1 tablespoon
• Onion (medium, sliced) - 1
• Arugula - 1 cup
• Balsamic Vinegar - 1 tablespoon
• Honey - 1 teaspoon
• Garlic (minced) - 2 cloves
• Salt - to taste
• Black Pepper - to taste
• Thyme (fresh or dried) - 1 teaspoon

Preparation

Begin by preparing all your ingredients beforehand. Slice the rustic bread into four even slices. Clean and slice the mushrooms into thin pieces to ensure they cook evenly. Mince the garlic, slice the onion, and crumble the goat cheese for easy application. Make sure the arugula is washed and drained. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process.

Cooking Process

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

In a large pan over medium heat, add butter and a tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Stir often until the onions become soft and golden brown. This will take about 20 minutes. Adjust your cooking timer to help track this. Once done, set them aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms

In the same pan, add the remaining olive oil, mushrooms, and garlic. Season with salt, black pepper, and thyme. Sauté until the mushrooms are golden brown and cooked through, about 10 minutes.

Step 3: Assemble the Tartines

Toast the rustic bread slices lightly to give them a bit of crunch. Spread a layer of goat cheese on each slice. Top with the sautéed mushrooms and caramelized onions. Drizzle a hint of balsamic vinegar and honey over the top for added flavor.

Step 4: Add Fresh Arugula

Add a generous handful of arugula to each tartine. The fresh, peppery flavor will cut through the richness of the toppings, balancing the dish perfectly.

Enjoying Tarry Tartine

Tarry Tartine makes a perfect lunch or a light dinner. Serve it with a side salad or a bowl of seasonal soup for a complete meal. For an authentic French experience, pair it with a glass of chilled Chenin Blanc or a light-bodied Beaujolais. Enjoy at room temperature or slightly warm for the best flavors. These tartines are the epitome of rustic comfort food, bringing the essence of the French countryside to your table.