Tartiflette: A Savory French Comfort Dish
Category: Main Courses
Servings: 4
Tartiflette is a classic French dish that hails from the Savoy region, traditionally made with creamy melted cheese, tender potatoes, and smoky bacon. It’s the perfect comfort food to enjoy with loved ones on cold evenings, offering rich, hearty flavors. The secret to this dish lies in its simplicity and the combination of ingredients that blend together so beautifully. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this indulgent and satisfying dish for four servings.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Potatoes | 2 kg |
| Smoked bacon (pancetta affumicata) | 140 g |
| Reblochon cheese | 300 g |
| Butter | 50 g |
| Onion | 1 |
| Heavy cream (panna fresca) | 70 ml |
| Dry white wine | 30 ml |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 590 kcal |
| Protein | 17 g |
| Carbohydrates | 48 g |
| Fat | 42 g |
| Saturated fat | 18 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sodium | 850 mg |
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Potatoes
Begin by cooking the potatoes. We recommend using a pressure cooker to speed up the process. Place the potatoes in the pressure cooker and cover them with salted water. Cook for 10 minutes, ensuring the potatoes remain firm but tender enough to slice easily. Avoid overcooking, as the slices should remain intact. Once cooked, let the potatoes cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Onion
While the potatoes are cooking, prepare the onion. Peel and finely slice it into thin rings. In a pan, heat a bit of butter and gently sauté the onions over medium heat until they become soft and translucent. Once the onions have softened, add the white wine to the pan and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the liquid to evaporate and intensify the flavors. Set the onions aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Bacon
Take 16 slices of smoked pancetta (bacon). If you are planning to use individual ramekins, you will need 4 slices per ramekin. Alternatively, for a single dish, use all the bacon. Reserve these slices whole. Cut the remaining pancetta into small strips, about half a centimeter in width.
Step 4: Make the Reblochon Fondue
Now it’s time to make the reblochon cheese fondue. Start by removing the rind from the reblochon cheese. Cut the cheese into small cubes and place it in a pot over low heat. Slowly melt the cheese, stirring gently to avoid burning. For a smoother, creamier texture, add the heavy cream to the melted cheese and continue stirring until you have a silky fondue-like consistency. Set this aside for later use.
Step 5: Assemble the Tartiflette
To assemble, lightly grease four individual ceramic baking dishes (about 18-20 cm in diameter). Begin by laying 4 slices of pancetta in each dish, forming a cross pattern with half of each slice hanging over the edge of the dish. If you prefer a single large baking dish, use a larger one and skip this step.
Layer the cooked potatoes, the sautéed onions, and the pancetta strips over the bacon, filling the dishes or one large dish as needed. Gently toss the ingredients together to ensure they are evenly distributed.
Step 6: Add the Reblochon Cheese
Once the potatoes and bacon are arranged, pour the warm reblochon fondue over the potatoes, covering them completely. This cheese sauce will melt beautifully into the potatoes, making every bite rich and indulgent.
Step 7: Bake the Tartiflette
Now, it’s time to bake. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the tartiflette dishes in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling and melted. If you’ve used individual dishes, you can fold the overhanging pancetta slices back over the top for a rustic look.
Step 8: Let It Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the tartiflette from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes to cool slightly. This allows the flavors to set, making it easier to serve. When ready, serve the tartiflette while it’s still warm, accompanied by a green salad or a light vegetable side for a complete meal. Enjoy!
This comforting dish is sure to impress your guests, blending simple ingredients with rich, melt-in-your-mouth flavors. Tartiflette is a perfect choice for gatherings or cozy dinners at home, offering both a taste of French culinary tradition and a modern, indulgent touch.
