Ainu-inspired Onion Tart

Ingredients

In this Ainu-inspired version, we incorporate Ainu culinary elements by using local herbs and spices that are characteristic of Ainu cuisine. Additionally, we enhance the flavor profile by adding sautéed mushrooms, which provide an earthy note to the tart. These adaptations infuse the dish with the essence of Ainu cuisine while maintaining the essence of the original German recipe. We alse have the original recipe for Weimarer Zwiebelkuchen, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 cup (60ml) ice water 1/4 cup (60ml) ice water
• 3 large onions, thinly sliced 3 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) vegetable oil 2 tablespoons (30ml) vegetable oil
• 1 cup (150g) mushrooms, sliced 1 cup (150g) mushrooms, sliced
• 2 tablespoons (30g) butter 2 tablespoons (30g) butter
• 2 eggs 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon Ainu herb blend (such as horsetail, angelica, or yarrow) 1 teaspoon Ainu herb blend (such as horsetail, angelica, or yarrow)
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 12g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 4g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.6g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use your fingers to rub it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. 2.
   Gradually add the ice water, a tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
4. 4.
   In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until golden brown and caramelized, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and set aside.
5. 5.
   In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they are tender and lightly browned. Remove from heat and set aside.
6. 6.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, Ainu herb blend, salt, and pepper.
7. 7.
   Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface and transfer it to a tart pan. Press the dough into the pan and trim any excess.
8. 8.
   Spread the caramelized onions evenly over the tart crust, followed by the sautéed mushrooms.
9. 9.
   Pour the egg and cream mixture over the onions and mushrooms, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
10. 10.
    Bake the tart in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
11. 11.
    Allow the tart to cool slightly before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Onions — Ensure the onions are thinly sliced to achieve a caramelized texture. Cooking them slowly over low heat will enhance their natural sweetness.
• Ainu herb blend — If you can't find Ainu-specific herbs, you can substitute with a blend of dried herbs such as thyme, rosemary, and oregano.

Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, you can add grated cheese such as Gruyère or Emmental on top of the tart before baking.
• Experiment with different mushroom varieties like shiitake or oyster mushrooms to add depth to the dish.
• Serve the tart with a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche for added creaminess.
• Make the tart ahead of time and reheat it in the oven for a few minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
• Pair the Ainu-inspired Onion Tart with a crisp green salad to balance the richness of the dish.

Serving advice

Serve the Ainu-inspired Onion Tart warm or at room temperature. It can be enjoyed as a main course accompanied by a side salad or as an appetizer for a larger meal. Cut it into wedges and garnish with fresh herbs for an appealing presentation.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, sprinkle some fresh Ainu herbs on top of the tart before serving. The vibrant green color will add a pop of freshness and visually complement the golden crust.