20 Mar 2025
Cook time 40 min
Prep time 60 min
Ingredients:
1 egg
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup butter
2 onions
2 tbsp vinegar
1 tsp fresh thyme
2 cups all-purpose white wheat flour
1 tbsp water
These gluten-free caramelised onion and thyme tarts are a delightful combination of sweet, savoury, and aromatic flavours. Perfect for a cozy brunch or as an elegant appetizer, this recipe uses a blend of rich ricotta cheese and buttery pastry, complemented by the sweetness of caramelised onions and the fresh scent of thyme.
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pastry:
- In a large bowl, combine the gluten-free flour and butter. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
- Beat the egg and add it to the flour mixture. Mix thoroughly until the dough starts to come together.
- If the dough feels too dry, add a tablespoon of water and mix again until it forms a cohesive dough.
- Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow it to firm up.
2. Caramelize the Onions:
- While the dough is chilling, peel and thinly slice the onions.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of butter or oil.
- Add the onions to the skillet and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for about 15-20 minutes or until they become golden brown and caramelized.
- Add the vinegar and fresh thyme to the skillet, stir well, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the liquid is mostly evaporated. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Prepare the Ricotta Filling:
- In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.
4. Assemble the Tarts:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove the dough from the refrigerator and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
- Cut the dough into small circles using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass, slightly larger than your tart pans or muffin tin cups.
- Press the dough circles into the tart pans or muffin tin cups, ensuring they cover the bottom and sides evenly.
5. Fill the Tarts:
- Spoon a small amount of the ricotta mixture into each tart shell, spreading it evenly.
- Top the ricotta mixture with a spoonful of caramelized onions.
6. Bake:
- Place the filled tart pans or muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is set.
7. Serve:
- Allow the tarts to cool slightly before removing them from the pans.
- Garnish with additional fresh thyme if desired.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips:
- Ensure all your ingredients are gluten-free, particularly the all-purpose flour.
- Caramelise the onions slowly on low heat for the best depth of flavor.
- Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out to make it easier to handle.
- Use a fork to prick the pastry base before adding the filling to prevent it from puffing up during baking.
- For a twist, add a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese on top of the tarts before baking.
Once baked to golden perfection, these gluten-free caramelised onion and thyme tarts offer a deliciously flaky pastry with a rich, savory filling. They are perfect for serving at gatherings or enjoying as a special treat. Whether you’re gluten-sensitive or simply love flavorful dishes, these tarts are sure to impress.