Layered Vegetable Tian Galette

This makes for a vibrant Summer dish that showcases seasonal vegetables in a perfect way, and that’s as pretty as it is tasty! So what is a French “Tian”, exactly?

Originally, a “tian” is a round earthenware vessel from Provence, used for both cooking and serving, going from the oven directly to the table. Being often filled with layered vegetables and baked in the oven, the vessel has also given its name to the dish prepared in it.

In older versions of the recipe, a Tian was described as a lean stew with the layered vegetables cooked in a sauce. But in modern versions of it, the vegetables are cooked with no liquids and naturally steam with their own moisture. Tian are often made with vegetables alone, but you will find some topped with goat cheese, crumbled hard-boiled eggs, bread crumbs, or even with added fish and meat slices inside.

Layered Vegetable Tian Galette

This take on the traditonal Provencal Tian has it encased in a buttery shortcrust. A layer of caramelized onions is also placed underneath the Tian to add another layer of sweetness.

The crust, the sweet onions, the olive-oil doused veggies… the flavors and textures all meld together as the galette bakes. This Layered Vegetable Tian Galette has been part of my Summer repertoire for years, and it isn’t leaving it any time soon.

When I feel like it, I even add a handful of black olives and a few anchovy filets on top for extra-bursts of saltiness. Cooking notes:

• For the crust, you can use a store-bought pie crust or make your own. I am providing you with a recipe for a homemade pie crust spiked with Herbes de Provence, which pairs perfectly with the layered vegetable tian filling.
• When picking out your vegetables to make this recipe, try to choose tomatoes, zucchini and eggplant that have the same circumference. It will be easier to create the circular pattern-top of the galette if your slices are all the same size
• Optional: the bottom of the crust is left plain here, but you could spread 1 tbsp of Dijon Mustard, Pesto or Tomato paste at the bottom if you wish (before adding the caramelized onions on top).

If you try this Layered Vegetable Tian Galette recipe let me know! Leave a comment or share a photo using #pardonyourfrench on Instagram.

Bon Appétit!

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