Wine Made Simple
Wine Made Simple
French & Italian Wine Education
How to Make a Perfect Tartiflette: Comforting, Cheesy French Indulgence
Bonjour, lovely wine lovers!
Today, I’m bringing you a slice of alpine comfort straight from the French mountains. We’re talking about Tartiflette—a rustic, gooey, and oh-so-satisfying dish that is guaranteed to charm your taste buds and warm your soul. Imagine the creaminess of melted Reblochon cheese married with tender potatoes, smoky bacon, and just a touch of white wine.
Voilà! You're in for a cozy culinary hug that pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine. Ready to dive in? Let’s get cooking!
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by boiling the sliced potatoes in salted water for about 20 minutes until they are tender but still hold their shape. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon and OnionsIn a large skillet, cook the lardons (or bacon) over medium heat until they start to turn golden and crispy. Add the sliced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5-6 minutes.
Step 3: Assemble the TartiflettePreheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Layer the cooked potatoes in the dish and season lightly with salt and pepper. Spread the bacon and onion mixture over the potatoes, pour in the dry white wine.
Step 4: Top with ReblochonPlace the two halves of the Reblochon cheese, cut side down, over the top. The idea is to let the cheese melt right into the potatoes while baking.
Step 5: Bake to Golden PerfectionBake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden. The edges should be crisp, and the top gorgeously browned.
Step 6: ServeLet it cool slightly before serving. Tartiflette is at its best when warm, rich, and gooey. Serve with a green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness and a glass of that same crisp white wine you used earlier.
Wine Pairing:
Since we're diving into the flavors of the French Alps, I suggest pairing this indulgent dish with a glass of wine from Savoie like Roussettede Savoie, Apremont, Chignin, or Seyssel.
I paired it today with La Tacconnière from Maison Mollex, with Altesse grapes. This wine has an elegant and fine aromatic intensity with notes of pear and peach, as well as floral notes such as violet and lime blossom, and a nice minerality.
You can also go for a classic Chablisfrom Burgundy, a Pinot Gris from Oregon or California, or aChenin Blanc from California. These wines have just the right acidity to balance out the richness of the cheese and bring freshness to each bite...
Now, grab a fork, break through that cheesy crust, and enjoy the flavors of French mountain comfort. Whether you're hosting friends or indulging in a cozy night in, this Tartiflette is sure to add a delicious French flair to your table.
Bon appétit, my friends! And don’t forget, there’s always a story behind each glass of wine—so pour yourself one and celebrate la vie en rosé... or blanc, in this case!
No Reblochon? If you can't find Reblochon, substitute with another washed-rind cheese like Taleggio or even a creamy Brie.
Smoky Upgrade: Want a little more depth? Use smoked bacon for that extra alpine twist.
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