What is a tian on menu?

"Tian" on a menu refers to a type of dish, usually a savory one, that is baked in a shallow, round dish, often with a decorative top layer. Here's a breakdown:

Origin and Meaning:

* "Tian" is derived from the French word for "sky" or "heaven." It's a play on the appearance of the dish, where the top layer often resembles the starry night sky.

Key Characteristics:

* Shape: A tian is baked in a round, shallow dish, often with a flared rim.

* Ingredients: It typically features vegetables arranged in a decorative pattern, often overlapping or stacked. Vegetables common in tians include:

* Tomatoes

* Zucchini

* Eggplant

* Potatoes

* Peppers

* Mushrooms

* Cooking Method: Tians are usually baked in the oven until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.

* Flavor: Tians can be seasoned with herbs, spices, garlic, olive oil, and even cheese, depending on the recipe.

Examples of Tians:

* Tian Provençal: A classic tian featuring tomatoes, zucchini, eggplant, and herbs.

* Tian of Roasted Root Vegetables: A hearty tian featuring carrots, parsnips, potatoes, and onions.

* Tian of Salmon with Asparagus: A more elaborate tian featuring salmon and asparagus.

Why are Tians Popular?

* Presentation: Tians are visually appealing and offer a great way to showcase fresh produce.

* Versatility: They can be made with a variety of vegetables and seasonings to suit different tastes.

* Flavor: The baking process brings out the natural sweetness and flavor of the vegetables.

* Easy to make: Tians are relatively simple to assemble and bake.

Next time you see "Tian" on a menu, you'll know it's a delicious and beautifully presented dish that's sure to please.