Croustade de Luchon

Introduction

The Croustade de Luchon is a traditional dessert originating from the Luchon area in Southwestern France. This delightful pastry is renowned for its flakey layers and fragrant filling, often enjoyed during festive occasions and family gatherings. Its rich history dates back centuries and embodies the region's culinary influences, evolving from countryside kitchens to becoming a beloved recipe across France.

Ingredients

To create a classic Croustade de Luchon, you'll need the following ingredients:

• Flour - 200g
• Eggs - 3
• Butter - 150g
• Sugar - 100g
• Apples - 4
• Armagnac - 50ml
• Vanilla essence - 1 teaspoon
• Cinnamon - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - Pinch
• Water - As required

Ingredient Spotlight

The key to this dish lies in the freshness of the apples and the quality of the Armagnac, which adds a fragrant, flavorful depth to the filling.

Preparation

To start making your Croustade de Luchon, follow these preparation steps:

Preparing the Pastry

1. In a large bowl, sift the flour and add a pinch of salt.
2. Add 100g of the cubed butter and rub it into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
3. Add a beaten egg and enough water to bring the pastry together into a smooth dough.
4. Wrap the dough in cling film and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Preparing the Filling

1. Peel and dice the apples.
2. In a pan, melt the remaining butter and add the apples.
3. Sprinkle in the sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla essence.
4. Cook until the apples are caramelized but still retain some bite.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the Armagnac, allowing the mixture to cool.

Assembling the Croustade

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F).
2. On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a thin sheet large enough to cover a pie dish.
3. Line the pie dish with the pastry, trimming any excess and saving it for decoration.
4. Fill the pastry shell with the cooled apple mixture.
5. Use the remaining pastry to create lattice strips or shapes for the top.
6. Brush the pastry with beaten egg for a golden finish.

Cooking Process

Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes until the pastry is golden and crispy. If needed, set a timer to ensure precise cooking.

Enjoying Your Croustade de Luchon

The Croustade de Luchon is best enjoyed warm, allowing the aromas of apples and Armagnac to be fully appreciated. Serve it with a dollop of crème fraîche or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a perfect dessert. This pastry can be paired with a sweet wine from the region to enhance the gastronomic experience.