Savory Caramelized Onion Galette
Highlighted under: Fresh Baking Recipes
I love making this Savory Caramelized Onion Galette when I want to impress my guests with minimal effort. The combination of sweet, caramelized onions and flaky pastry creates a delightful base for any meal. I always enjoy experimenting with herbs and cheeses, letting each galette reflect my mood or the season. Whether it's a light lunch or a dinner party centerpiece, this dish is always a crowd-pleaser that showcases layers of flavor and texture.
Creating this Savory Caramelized Onion Galette has become a cherished weekend ritual in my kitchen. I find that the key to achieving rich flavors lies in slow-cooking the onions until they turn golden brown and develop that sweet depth. I've experimented with different types of cheeses, but Gruyère elevates the flavor profile beautifully, adding a creamy element that balances the sweetness of the onions.
One of my favorite tips is to add a splash of balsamic vinegar during the caramelization process; it adds a hint of acidity that brightens the entire dish. The flaky crust, achieved by keeping the butter cold, allows for that perfect crunch, making each bite a delightful experience. This galette is perfect for any occasion!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- A delightful blend of sweet caramelized onions with a flaky crust
- Simple yet elegant dish that impresses at any gathering
- Versatile; pair it with your favorite salads or serve as a starter
Understanding the Dough
The dough for this galette is wonderfully flaky, thanks to the cold butter and the minimal handling of the dough. When mixing the butter into the flour, aim for a mixture that resembles coarse crumbs—this is key for achieving that desired flakiness. If it gets too warm, the butter will melt, so keep it chilled until ready to roll out. Using a pastry cutter is helpful here, but your fingers can work just as well if you work quickly.
Once your dough comes together, shaping it into a disk and chilling it is essential. This helps to relax the gluten, making it easier to roll out without elasticity pulling it back. If you're in a pinch, you can refrigerate the dough for just 15-20 minutes, but a full 30 minutes will yield the best results.
Caramelizing Onions to Perfection
The caramelization of onions is a highlight of this recipe and requires patience. Use medium heat to avoid burning the onions; if they cook too quickly, they may not develop that rich, golden color and sweet flavor. You want to stir occasionally, allowing them to brown nicely. It typically takes about 25-30 minutes, but stir more frequently towards the end if they start to stick.
Adding balsamic vinegar not only enhances the sweetness but also introduces a depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the Gruyère cheese. If you'd like an onion mix with a hint of sweetness, consider adding a teaspoon of sugar while caramelizing, which can accelerate the browning process without overpowering the onion's natural flavor.
Ingredients
For the Galette
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup ice water
For the Filling
- 3 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
- 1 egg, for egg wash
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water until the dough comes together.
Caramelize the Onions
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 25-30 minutes or until they are soft and caramelized. Add balsamic vinegar, thyme, salt, and pepper, allowing it to cool slightly.
Assemble the Galette
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface into a 12-inch circle. Transfer the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Fold and Bake
Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, pleating it as you go. Beat the egg and brush it over the crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, try mixing in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach with the onions. This galette can be made ahead of time and enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it a perfect addition to picnics and parties.
Serving Suggestions
This Savory Caramelized Onion Galette can be served as a stand-alone dish or accompanied by fresh salads. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette provides a bright contrast to the richness of the pie. For a heartier meal, consider pairing it with a roasted vegetable medley or a side of creamy potato salad.
To elevate your presentation, try slicing the galette into wedges and placing each piece on a bed of mixed greens. Drizzling a balsamic reduction on the plate adds a beautiful touch and mirrors the flavors in the filling. Serve warm, but it's also delightful at room temperature, making it perfect for picnics or gatherings.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
If prepared ahead of time, the galette can be assembled and refrigerated before baking. Just wrap it in plastic wrap to maintain moisture. When you're ready to bake, remove it from the fridge while preheating the oven to allow it to come closer to room temperature, ensuring an even bake.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, which helps to maintain the crisp crust. A quick blast in the microwave can make it soggy, so it's best avoided unless you're in a hurry.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use store-bought pastry for the galette?
Yes, using store-bought pastry can save time. Just follow the instructions on the box.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze the galette?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled galette before baking. Just wrap it tightly and bake from frozen, adding extra time.
→ What can I serve with the galette?
This galette pairs well with a simple green salad or a light vinaigrette for a complete meal.
Savory Caramelized Onion Galette
I love making this Savory Caramelized Onion Galette when I want to impress my guests with minimal effort. The combination of sweet, caramelized onions and flaky pastry creates a delightful base for any meal. I always enjoy experimenting with herbs and cheeses, letting each galette reflect my mood or the season. Whether it's a light lunch or a dinner party centerpiece, this dish is always a crowd-pleaser that showcases layers of flavor and texture.
Created by: Anna
Recipe Type: Fresh Baking Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
For the Galette
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup ice water
For the Filling
- 3 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
- 1 egg, for egg wash
How-To Steps
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water until the dough comes together. Shape it into a disk, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 25-30 minutes or until they are soft and caramelized. Add balsamic vinegar, thyme, salt, and pepper, allowing it to cool slightly.
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface into a 12-inch circle. Transfer the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spread the caramelized onion mixture over the dough, leaving a 2-inch border. Sprinkle with Gruyère cheese.
Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, pleating it as you go. Beat the egg and brush it over the crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, try mixing in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach with the onions. This galette can be made ahead of time and enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it a perfect addition to picnics and parties.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 220mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 24g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 5g