Toulouse Soirée Tart
Introduction
The Toulouse Soirée Tart is a delightful blend of rustic French culinary tradition and modern flavors, hearkening back to the vibrant markets and rich culinary history of Toulouse, a city located in the southwest of France. Known for its rich culture and heritage, Toulouse is famous for its beautiful pink terracotta bricks and an equally rosy culinary reputation, particularly with its sausages and cassoulet. This tart captures the essence of Toulouse, offering a sophisticated dish ideal for elegant gatherings or a cozy home dinner. The Toulouse Soirée Tart is perfect for those who seek to blend tradition with a contemporary twist.
Ingredients
- Puff pastry - 1 sheet, thawed
- Goat cheese - 200g, softened
- Gruyère cheese - 100g, grated
- Shallots - 2 medium, finely sliced
- Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
- White wine - 1/4 cup
- Toulouse sausage - 2 links, sliced
- Fresh thyme - 1 tablespoon, chopped
- Black pepper - to taste
- Salt - to taste
- Egg - 1, beaten (for egg wash)
Preparation
1. Preparing the Puff Pastry:
Roll out the puff pastry gently on a lightly floured surface until it fits your tart pan. Carefully lift it into the pan, pressing it evenly across the bottom and up the sides. Trim excess pastry around the edges. Chill in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.
2. Preparing the Filling:
In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shallots and sauté until they are soft and translucent. Stir in the white wine and let it reduce by half, then add the sliced Toulouse sausage and cook until lightly browned. Season with salt, black pepper, and thyme.
3. Assembling the Tart:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Retrieve the pastry-lined tart pan from the refrigerator. Spread the goat cheese evenly over the base. Layer the sausage mixture over the cheese. Sprinkle the grated Gruyère cheese over the top. Brush the edges of the pastry with the egg wash.
4. Baking:
Place the tart on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake in the preheated oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crispy. Use a cooking timer to track the time accurately.
Serving Suggestions
Once baked, let the Toulouse Soirée Tart cool slightly before slicing. Pair with a light green salad dressed in vinaigrette and a glass of white wine to complement the flavors of the sausage and cheese. Perfect for an evening gathering or a night in, this tart ensures an elegant dash of French flair on your table.