Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften—about 5 minutes.
Sprinkle in the brown sugar and continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the onions become golden brown and caramelized, about 20-25 minutes. Add the balsamic vinegar and stir to combine, letting the vinegar cook off and glaze the onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once the onions are soft and golden, remove the skillet from the heat and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Tarts
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease or line a 12-cup muffin tin with parchment paper. The muffin tin will help create individual servings of tarts with a perfect shape.
Unroll the puff pastry sheet on a flat surface. Using a round cookie cutter or the rim of a glass, cut the pastry into circles slightly larger than the muffin cups. You should have enough to make 12 individual tarts. If you have any extra dough, you can re-roll it to make a few more circles.
Step 3: Assemble the Tarts
Place a spoonful of the caramelized onions into the bottom of each muffin cup. Press them down gently so they form a flat layer. Then, place one round of puff pastry on top of each muffin cup, pressing the edges of the pastry into the sides of the cups.
Step 4: Egg Wash and Bake
In a small bowl, beat the egg and brush a light layer over the top of the puff pastry rounds. This will help the tarts develop a beautiful golden-brown finish as they bake.
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden and crispy, and the edges of the onions are slightly caramelized.
Step 5: Flip the Tarts
Once the tarts are baked, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for a couple of minutes. Then, carefully invert the muffin tin onto a serving platter or large tray. Gently lift the tin off, revealing the upside-down onion tarts with a perfectly caramelized onion layer on top.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with fresh thyme leaves or rosemary sprigs, if desired, for an extra burst of flavor and a lovely presentation. Serve the tarts warm, and enjoy the sweet-savory delight of caramelized onions in a buttery puff pastry shell.
Serving and Storage
These Warm Church-Supper Upside Down Onion Tarts are best served warm straight from the oven. They make an excellent appetizer for a dinner party, holiday gathering, or as part of a buffet spread. They also pair wonderfully with a light salad or roasted vegetables for a more substantial meal.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. While they’re best enjoyed fresh, the flavors still hold up well after refrigeration.
Tips
- Use a High-Quality Puff Pastry: The key to a perfectly flaky crust is using a high-quality puff pastry. While store-bought works perfectly fine, opt for all-butter puff pastry for the best flavor and texture.
- Experiment with Cheese: For added richness, you can sprinkle some grated cheese, such as Gruyère or Parmesan, over the onions before adding the puff pastry. This will create an even more indulgent tart.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the caramelized onions and even assemble the tarts the day before. Store them in the refrigerator and bake them just before serving to save time.
- Herb Variations: Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or even sage work well with the caramelized onions. You can mix them into the onions during the cooking process or use them as a garnish.
- Customize the Filling: While onions are traditional, you can add other vegetables to the filling, such as sautéed mushrooms or roasted bell peppers, for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion
Warm Church-Supper Upside Down Onion Tarts are a versatile and delicious dish that can be served at a variety of occasions, from casual family dinners to elegant church suppers or festive gatherings. The combination of caramelized onions, flaky puff pastry, and a hint of sweetness from the brown sugar makes them irresistible. With their savory and slightly sweet flavor, these tarts are bound to become a favorite on your recipe rotation. Whether you’re making them for a crowd or just a cozy dinner at home, these upside-down tarts will add a touch of homemade charm to any meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make these tarts ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the caramelized onions and assemble the tarts in advance. Simply refrigerate the assembled tarts and bake them when you’re ready to serve. This can save you time during the event or meal prep.
Can I use a different type of pastry?
While puff pastry is ideal for this recipe due to its flaky texture, you can also use phyllo dough or even pie crust for a different texture. Keep in mind that the result will be slightly different, but still delicious.
What can I substitute for balsamic vinegar?
If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, you can substitute with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar. The balsamic vinegar adds a slightly sweet and tangy flavor, so the substitution will alter the taste, but it will still work well in the dish.
Can I freeze the tarts for later use?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled tarts before baking. After assembling, wrap each tart individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to bake them, bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Can I add cheese to the filling?
Absolutely! Adding a sprinkle of cheese such as Gruyère, goat cheese, or Parmesan to the onion filling before topping with the puff pastry can add a lovely depth of flavor and richness to