I remember the first time I tried caramelised onion and goats cheese tart. It was at a tiny café tucked in a cobbled street, and the smell alone made me pause. The sweet, deep flavor of onions paired with the creamy tang of goats cheese was unlike anything I had ever tasted. That experience stuck with me. Since then, I’ve tried to recreate it at home, and nothing beats making it yourself.
This recipe by Jamie Oliver is one of my favorites because it’s approachable and still feels special. You don’t need fancy tools or expensive ingredients. Just a few simple steps can transform basic onions and cheese into a tart that will wow anyone.
Jamie Oliver’s Caramelised Onion And Goats Cheese Tart Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s versatile and forgiving. Jamie Oliver’s version highlights the natural sweetness of onions while letting the goats cheese shine. The tart is crispy at the base, soft and rich inside, and perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a special brunch. It’s simple enough for a weekday, but fancy enough for guests.
Ingredients Needed
I always start by laying out ingredients because it sets the tone for cooking. It’s easier to enjoy the process when everything is at hand. You will need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 large onions, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- Pinch of sugar
- 1 sheet of ready-rolled puff pastry
- 150 grams goats cheese
- Fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)
- Sea salt and black pepper
Pro tip: I like using a mix of red and yellow onions. The flavors layer beautifully, creating more depth in the tart.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Caramelised Onion And Goats Cheese Tart
I always remember the first time I caramelised onions. It takes patience, but the smell fills the kitchen and is worth every minute. Here’s how Jamie’s tart comes together:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F).
- Caramelise the onions: Heat olive oil in a pan. Add onions, a pinch of salt, sugar, and balsamic vinegar. Cook on low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal is deep golden brown, soft onions with a sweet aroma.
- Prepare the pastry: Roll out the puff pastry and place it on a lined baking tray. Use a fork to prick the base lightly.
- Layer the tart: Spread caramelised onions evenly over the pastry. Crumble goats cheese on top. Sprinkle with fresh herbs if using. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bake: Place in the oven for 20-25 minutes until pastry is golden and cheese slightly browned.
- Serve warm: Best enjoyed fresh from the oven, but it can also be served at room temperature.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
Cooking is like chemistry, and this tart is a perfect example. Here’s why it works:
- Onions: The sugar in onions caramelises during slow cooking. Heat breaks down complex sugars into simpler ones, creating sweetness and deep flavor.
- Balsamic vinegar: Adds acidity that balances sweetness, preventing the tart from tasting cloying.
- Goats cheese: Its tangy fat content melts beautifully, creating creamy pockets that contrast the soft onions.
- Puff pastry: Flaky layers form through steam released from butter in the dough. This creates crispiness that contrasts with soft filling.
Understanding this science helps you tweak the recipe without fear of messing it up.
Expert Tips
I’ve learned a few tricks after making this tart dozens of times:
- Low and slow onions: Never rush. High heat burns them and loses sweetness.
- Drain excess moisture: Onions release water as they cook. Too much liquid can make the pastry soggy.
- Room temperature cheese: Softens and melts evenly. Cold cheese can stay clumpy.
- Let it rest: A few minutes out of the oven helps the tart hold shape when sliced.
These small adjustments make a big difference.
Recipe Variations
I love experimenting, and this tart is a perfect canvas. Here are some ideas:
- Add nuts: Walnuts or pine nuts add crunch and flavor.
- Swap cheese: Brie or feta work beautifully with caramelised onions.
- Mix herbs: Sage, tarragon, or chives give subtle changes in aroma.
- Add protein: Thin slices of prosciutto or smoked salmon make it heartier.
Each variation changes the experience, so you can make it your own.
Final Words
This tart is more than a recipe. It’s a comfort dish, a showstopper, and a lesson in simple, beautiful cooking. Making it reminds me that patience and attention to detail turn humble ingredients into something extraordinary.
When you serve this tart, notice the golden onions, the creamy cheese, and the flaky crust. That’s the magic of combining science, patience, and love in the kitchen.
FAQs
Can I Use Store-bought Pastry For The Tart?
Yes, store-bought puff pastry works perfectly fine. Just make sure to defrost it before using.
How Can I Make The Onions Sweeter Without Burning Them?
Cook the onions on a low heat and stir them regularly. Adding a pinch of sugar can help balance the flavors.
Can I Make The Tart In Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the tart ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.