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Rustic Onion Tart

Author: LydiaF

Ingredients

For the tart dough:

  • 1/2 cup butter cut into pieces and softened
  • 3 ounces cream cheese cut into pieces softened
  • 1 cup flour

For the onion filling:

  • 3 large onions cut into petals
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves less if using dried
  • 3/4 cup grated semi-hard cheese; Swiss is good. I used Manchego because we had it in the fridge
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • A generous splash of balsamic vinegar OR brandy OR red wine one or two teaspoons for the balsamic, more for the brandy or wine...start with a smaller amount and add more as you like

Instructions

Make the dough first.

  • Soften the butter and cream cheese in the microwave or in a large saucepan over very low heat. Stir with a wooden spoon until smooth. It shouldn't be completely liquid.
  • Add the flour, a little at a time and stir until a soft dough forms.
  • Cover and chill for at least an hour in the fridge.

While the dough is chilling, caramelize the onions.

  • Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium high heat.
  • Add the onions and saute until they start to soften and change color, about 10 minutes.
  • Reduce the heat to low and let them cook until they turn a gorgeous golden brown and smell incredibly sweet, another 30 minutes or so, stirring every 15 minutes or so. If the onions start to dry out, turn the heat down some more and add a little more olive oil.
  • Add the thyme and brandy and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 10 minutes more.
  • Preheat the oven to 350°
  • Pull the dough out of the fridge and let it come to room temperature while the onions are finishing. Now's a good time to grate the cheese if you haven't already.
  • Roll the dough out, using a little flour to prevent sticking.
  • Transfer to a baking sheet. It's OK is it extends past the edges.
  • Spread 2/3 of the cheese on the dough, leaving an inch or more all the way around.
  • Arrange the onions over top the cheese. Fold the sides up, leaving some of the onions exposed in the middle.
  • Spread the remaining cheese on top.
  • Bake for 30 - 35 minutes. The top will turn a nice golden brown.