
This rustic leek and Comté cheese tart captures the essence of traditional French home cooking. The tender, caramelized leeks pair beautifully with aged Comté cheese, all wrapped in a flaky, seed-studded crust reminiscent of countryside baking. This comforting dish fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma as it bakes.
Made fresh for weekend gatherings, this tart consistently impresses guests with its rustic elegance and authentic flavors.
Key Ingredients and Selection Tips
- Leeks (3 large) - Look for firm stalks with long white portions. Choose leeks with tender green parts. Winter leeks offer the most intense flavor
- Comté Cheese (70g) - Select 18-24 month aged Comté for crystalline texture and fruity notes. Grate just before using
- Dijon Mustard (1 tablespoon) - Traditional Dijon adds essential tang and depth
- Flour Blend (180g total) - Combine all-purpose and whole wheat flours for optimal texture and nutty flavor
Quality ingredients are essential for transforming this simple tart into something extraordinary.
Detailed Instructions
- 1. Preparing the Crust
- Lightly toast sesame and poppy seeds to enhance their flavors. Mix flours and sea salt in a large bowl. Work in olive oil until crumbly. Add water gradually until dough comes together.
- 2. Cleaning the Leeks
- Split leeks lengthwise and rinse thoroughly between layers. Soak in vinegar water for 10 minutes to remove all grit.
- 3. Cooking the Vegetables
- Slowly cook leeks in olive oil until translucent but still slightly firm. Add a bay leaf while cooking for subtle depth of flavor.
- 4. Assembly and Baking
- Roll dough into a rustic circle on parchment paper. Spread with mustard, leaving a border. Layer leeks evenly, top with grated cheese, then fold edges inward.
Essential Tips
Use room temperature ingredients for best results. Keep the folded edges naturally uneven for authentic rustic appeal.
Filling Technique
Distribute leeks evenly but not too thickly. Each slice should have a perfect balance of crisp crust and tender filling.

Final Notes
This tart celebrates the beauty of simple, quality ingredients prepared with care. It embodies the heart of French country cooking and brings people together around the table.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make the dough ahead of time?
- Sure, you can prep the dough a day ahead and keep it in the fridge, wrapped well in plastic.
- → How do I stop the crust from getting soggy?
- Make sure you drain the cooked leeks thoroughly so they don’t make the crust too moist when baking.
- → Is this tart freezer-friendly?
- Yes! It freezes perfectly after baking. Just warm it in the oven at 320°F (160°C) for 15–20 minutes.
- → Which wine goes best with this dish?
- A nice dry white, like Chardonnay or Chablis, pairs wonderfully with the flavors of leeks and cheddar.
- → How can I make it vegetarian?
- Just skip the ham and swap it for sautéed mushrooms or crushed walnuts for an extra bite.