Tarte Tatin of Endives, Bacon, and Cheese

Tarte Tatin of Endives, Bacon, and Cheese is a savory and indulgent dish that brings together a delightful combination of flavors and textures. This unique twist on the classic Tarte Tatin features caramelized Belgian endives, savory bacon cubes, and creamy Rollot cheese, all encased in a golden pastry crust.

Serves 4

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 pounds Belgian endives, trimmed and washed
• 1/4 cup canola oil
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar
• 6 ounces bacon cubes (lardons)
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup flour
• 1/2 pound Rollot cheese, rind removed
• 1 1/3 cups 2-percent milk
• 4 tablespoons crushed hazelnuts
• 1 tablespoon crème fraiche
• 1/2 teaspoon grated nutmeg
• Pepper and salt
• Pastry dough (pâte brisée) for a 1-crust pie

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Cut the Belgian endives into four lengthwise. In a skillet, heat the canola oil and sauté the endives until they turn translucent.
2. Sprinkle the brown sugar over the endives and cook for a few minutes to caramelize them. Remove the caramelized endives and place them on absorbent paper. Set them aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté the bacon cubes (lardons) for about 5 minutes. Set them aside.
4. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
5. In a saucepan, melt the butter and stir in the flour. Allow it to cook briefly. Cut the Rollot cheese into small cubes and add them to the saucepan along with the milk, crushed hazelnuts, crème fraiche, grated nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir and simmer for 5 minutes.
6. In a tart mold, arrange the caramelized endive wedges in a starburst pattern. Sprinkle the sautéed bacon cubes over the endives. Pour the contents of the skillet over the endives and bacon.
7. Roll out the pastry dough into a circle that is 2 inches larger than the mold. Place the dough over the filling, tucking it in thoroughly all around the inside of the mold.
8. Bake the tart in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden.
9. Once the tart is out of the oven, immediately invert a platter over the tart and flip it to turn it out. If any pieces stick to the mold, use a spatula to pry them loose and fit them back into the tart filling.
10. Serve the Tarte Tatin of Endives, Bacon, and Cheese warm.

This savory tart combines the sweetness of caramelized endives with the salty flavor of bacon and the creaminess of Rollot cheese. The hazelnuts add a delightful crunch, while the nutmeg, crème fraiche, and seasonings enhance the overall taste. Enjoy this delicious dish as a main course or as part of a brunch or lunch spread.

The Tarte Tatin of Endives, Bacon, and Cheese is a culinary masterpiece that showcases the beauty of contrasting flavors and textures. Each bite offers a delightful blend of sweetness, smokiness, creaminess, and crispiness that will leave your taste buds satisfied.

Whether you’re looking for a unique main course or a standout addition to your brunch or lunch spread, this savory tart is a showstopper. The combination of caramelized endives, savory bacon, and melted Rollot cheese creates a symphony of flavors that will please even the most discerning palates.

So, gather your ingredients, roll out the pastry dough, and prepare to indulge in this tantalizing dish. As you savor each bite of the Tarte Tatin of Endives, Bacon, and Cheese, you’ll appreciate the skillful arrangement of flavors and the culinary artistry that went into its creation.

Bon appétit! Enjoy this unforgettable culinary experience and impress your guests with this extraordinary dish.