Kakavijë Tart

The Kakavijë Tart is an intriguing dish that marries the traditional flavors of the Albanian fish stew with the beloved concept of a tart. Emerging from the hearty, rustic cuisine of Albania, kakavijë is typically a bright fish stew noted for its simple ingredients and robust flavors. This tart takes the essence of kakavijë and transforms it into an elegant dish, perfect for special occasions or as a conversation starter at dinner parties. The inspiration behind this dish lies in the diverse culinary history of Albania, influenced by Mediterranean flavors and rural traditions. This innovative approach respects the original dish while offering a unique culinary experience.

Ingredients

• Flour
• Butter
• Egg
• Salt
• Cod
• Olive Oil
• Onion
• Garlic
• Tomatoes
• Lemon Juice
• Water
• Dill
• Black Pepper
• Parsley

Instructions

Preparing the Pastry

1. Start by making the tart pastry: In a large bowl, combine flour and a pinch of salt. Add butter in small pieces, and rub it into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
2. Add a egg and mix until you have a smooth dough. Wrap it in cling film and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Preparing the Kakavijë Filling

1. In the meantime, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and prepare the fish filling. Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large pan.
2. Add chopped onions and garlic, sauté until they turn translucent and aromatic.
3. Add diced tomatoes and cook until they soften. Stir in fresh lemon juice and season with salt and black pepper.
4. Add chunks of cod, and gently stir until the fish is cooked through but still firm. Add a splash of water if needed for a stewy consistency.
5. Garnish with chopped dill and parsley, then remove from heat and let cool.

Assembling the Tart

1. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface until it’s large enough to cover your tart tin. Carefully line the tin with the dough, trimming excess edges.
2. Fill the tart with the cooled kakavijë filling, spreading it evenly.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes. Use a cooking timer to ensure precise cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Once the tart is golden and fragrant, let it cool slightly before serving. Pair the Kakavijë Tart with a refreshing green salad or a chilled white wine for an ideal dining experience. Enjoy the play of textures from the crispy tart crust to the savory, tender fish filling. This dish not only brings the taste of the sea to your table but also offers a slice of Albanian history and tradition.