Kielbasa and Caramelized Onion Tartlets

 

Kielbasa and Caramelized Onion Tartlets

These savory tartlets are the perfect appetizer for any occasion. The caramelized onions add a touch of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the smoky flavor of the kielbasa.

Ingredients:

• For the Crust (optional):

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
  • 2-3 tablespoons ice water

• For the Filling:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 8 ounces kielbasa, sliced into thin rounds

• For the Topping:

  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
  • 1 large egg yolk, beaten
  • 1 tablespoon milk

Instructions:

Make the Crust (optional):

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Cut in the cold butter with a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Stir in ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix.
3. Form the dough into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. (You can also use store-bought puff pastry for a quicker option.)

Caramelize the Onions:

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and season with salt and pepper.
2. Cook the onions slowly, stirring occasionally, for about 30-40 minutes, or until they are deeply golden brown and caramelized. Be patient, as this step takes time but gives the onions their rich flavor.

Assemble the Tartlets:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin tin or small tart pan.

If using homemade dough:

2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to a 1/8-inch thickness. Cut out circles using a cookie cutter or drinking glass slightly larger than the muffin tin cups.
3. Press the dough circles into the greased muffin cups, gently folding the edges to form a small crust.

If using store-bought puff pastry:

2. Thaw the puff pastry according to package instructions. Cut out squares from the puff pastry and gently press them into the greased muffin cups.

3. Prick the bottom of each crust with a fork to prevent them from puffing up too much while baking.

4. Divide the caramelized onions among the tartlet crusts.

5. Top each tartlet with a few slices of kielbasa.

6. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and milk. Brush the edges of the crusts with the egg wash.

7. Sprinkle the tops of the tartlets with shredded cheese.

Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Tips:

• For a richer flavor, you can brush the caramelized onions with a little balsamic vinegar or brown sugar during the cooking process.
• If you don't have kielbasa, you can substitute it with another type of sausage, such as chorizo or andouille.
• You can also add other vegetables to the filling, such as chopped mushrooms or bell peppers.
• Let the tartlets cool slightly before serving. They are best enjoyed warm.

These delicious and savory Kielbasa and Caramelized Onion Tartlets are sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering!