Caramelised chicory and onion tarte tatin

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C/fan 180°C/gas 6. On a floured surface, roll out the pastry a little, then trim into a rough 25cm circle (use a dinner plate as a guide). Prick all over with a fork, then chill on a plate. Discard the trimmings.
2. Melt half the butter in a 22cm heavy-based ovenproof frying pan over a medium heat. Add the onion and gently fry for 10 minutes until soft and lightly browned. Set aside.
3. Heat the remaining butter in the frying pan, then sprinkle the sugar into the pan in an even layer. Cook over a low heat, but do not stir, until the sugar has melted. Increase the heat and cook until caramelised.
Recipe continues after advertising
Advertisement
4. Remove the pan from the heat, scatter the thyme over the caramel, then top with the chicory halves, as many as you can fit in a single layer, cut-side down. Season well, scatter with the cheese and most of the pine nuts, then spoon over the onions.
5. Drape the pastry over the pan and tuck the edges in around the filling. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden and risen. Remove from the oven and cool in the pan for a few minutes before turning out onto a platter. Sprinkle with a little more cheese and pine nuts just before serving.