Greenwood Tart
Background and History
The delightful Greenwood Tart hails from the lush, verdant forests of the English countryside, where wild greens and herbs grow in abundance. Often associated with the joyful celebrations of May Day or the welcoming of spring, this traditional dish captures the essence of rebirth and the bounty of nature. Tracing its roots back to medieval times, the Greenwood Tart was a staple brought to picnic-laden meadows during festivals. Families would prepare the tart together, combining their freshly harvested produce with rustic cheeses and savory pastry.
Ingredients
- Pastry crust
- Spinach - 2 cups, chopped
- Wild garlic - 1/2 cup, chopped
- Leek - 1, sliced thinly
- Cream - 1 cup
- Eggs - 3 large
- Goat cheese - 150g, crumbled
- Nutmeg - a pinch
- Salt - to taste
- Black pepper - to taste
Preparation
Step 1: Prepping the Greens
Wash the spinach and wild garlic thoroughly to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a kitchen towel. Chop them coarsely, setting the stage for our forest-inspired filling.
Step 2: Preparing the Pastry
Roll out your pastry crust on a lightly floured surface. The crust should be about 1/4 inch thick. Carefully transfer it into your tart pan, pressing it gently to fit the shape. Trim any excess dough hanging from the sides.
Cooking Process
Step 1: Pre-baking the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line the pastry crust with parchment paper and fill it with baking beans. Blind bake for 15 minutes, then remove the beans and parchment. Bake for an additional 5 minutes until the crust is golden brown.
Step 2: Creating the Filling
In a large pan, sauté the leek in a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat until soft and translucent. Add the chopped spinach and wild garlic, cooking for a few minutes until wilted. Season with salt and pepper. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream and eggs until well mixed. Stir in the veg mixture, then fold in the goat cheese and a dash of nutmeg.
Step 3: Assembling the Tart
Pour the vegetable and egg mixture into the baked pastry crust. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Baking
Return the tart to the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set, and the top is lightly browned. Use a cooking timer to keep track.
Enjoying the Greenwood Tart
Allow the Greenwood Tart to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. It pairs beautifully with a fresh salad of mixed greens and a light vinaigrette, making for a fulfilling and refreshing meal. Perfectly suited for a picnic in nature or a rustic countryside gathering. Revel in the nourishing flavors and connection to the land that each bite restores.
Conclusion
The Greenwood Tart not only serves as a flavorful dish but also as a reminder of the enduring connection between the culinary arts and the natural world. By embracing seasonal ingredients, you create a tapestry of flavors that honor the traditions of the past while delighting the palates of the present. Whether shared at a bustling celebration or enjoyed in solitude as an homage to the spring’s bounty, this tart is as versatile as it is delicious.