Tarte à la Toulouse

Tarte à la Toulouse is a classic French dish that hails from the southwestern region of France, known for its rich culinary heritage. This savory pie combines the finest ingredients typical of Toulouse cuisine. Known for its robust flavors, Tarte à la Toulouse is a celebration of the region’s love for duck confit, leeks, and cheese. Perfect for a hearty meal, this dish is often enjoyed with a side of green salad and a glass of regional red wine.

Ingredients

• Pastry Dough - 1 sheet
• Duck Confit - 2 pieces
• Leeks - 2 medium, thinly sliced
• Onion - 1 large, finely chopped
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Butter - 50g
• Flour - 2 tablespoons
• Cream - 200ml
• Cheese (Gruyere or Comté) - 150g, grated
• Parsley - a handful, chopped
• Salt and Pepper - to taste

Preparation

Begin by preparing the pastry dough. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Roll out the pastry dough and line a tart tin, pressing the dough into the edges. Prick the base with a fork to prevent it from rising during baking. Blind bake the pastry dough for 15 minutes until it begins to firm up.

Prepare the Filling

While the pastry dough is baking, attend to the filling. Start by heating butter in a pan over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until they become translucent. Introduce the leeks and continue cooking until they soften, around 5-7 minutes.

Gently shred the duck confit, discarding the skin and bones. Add the shredded duck confit to the leek mixture, stirring well. Sprinkle with flour, mixing to combine. Pour in the cream, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assembling the Tart

Remove the partially baked pastry dough from the oven. Fill it with the duck and leek mixture, ensuring it is distributed evenly. Top with grated cheese and chopped parsley.

Cooking Process

Return the tart to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly and the crust is fully cooked. Set a timer to ensure perfect results.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Tarte à la Toulouse hot from the oven, allowing it to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Pair it with a crisp green salad lightly dressed in vinaigrette to balance the richness of the tart. Enjoy it with a robust red wine from the Southwest of France, such as a Gaillac or Cahors.

Conclusion

The Tarte à la Toulouse is a dish that encapsulates the rustic charm and culinary tradition of the Toulouse region. Whether for a family gathering or a special occasion, this tart offers a delightful taste of French gastronomy.