Fermented Vegetable Tarte Tatin

French · Autumn · 120 min · Serves 6 · By Lesapor Test Kitchen

This savory tarte tatin elevates the traditional French recipe with a layer of fermented root vegetables, celebrating the depth of flavor brought by fermentation. Serve this warm tart with a crisp green salad for a balanced and healthy meal.

Ingredients

  • 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups mixed fermented root vegetables, such as carrots and turnips, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • Flaky sea salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Method

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to smooth the creases.
  2. In a large ovenproof skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent.
  3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the fermented root vegetables and fresh thyme leaves, cooking for 3 minutes.
  4. Increase the heat to medium-high and add balsamic vinegar and honey to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the mixture is caramelized and syrupy, stirring frequently.
  5. Season the vegetable mixture with flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remove from heat and spread the mixture evenly in the skillet.
  6. Carefully place the puff pastry over the vegetable mixture, tucking the edges around the skillet. Cut a few slits in the pastry to allow steam to escape.
  7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and puffed.
  8. Remove the tarte tatin from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Carefully invert it onto a serving plate.