Lavender Tarte Provençale

Lavender Tarte Provençale is a delightful and aromatic dessert that originates from the Provence region in the south of France. This region is famous for its picturesque lavender fields, and lavender is a common ingredient in Provençale cuisine. Known for its aromatic and floral flavor, lavender adds a unique twist to traditional tarte recipes, transforming them into something truly special and memorable.

In Provence, lavender is more than just a plant; it's a way of life. The fields bloom in vibrant hues, painting the landscape in shades of purple and offering a sweet fragrance that fills the air. Lavender has been used for centuries not only in perfumes but also in culinary practices. Infused in sugar, honey, and even chocolate, lavender brings a touch of the exotic to any dish. This tarte is a celebration of lavender, offering a taste of Provence's serenity and natural beauty.

Ingredients

• Flour - 200g
• Butter - 100g, chilled and cubed
• Sugar - 50g
• Egg - 1
• Milk - 2 tablespoons
• Lavender - 2 teaspoons, dried and edible
• Cream - 250ml
• Honey - 75g
• Vanilla extract - 1 teaspoon

Preparation

Making the Pastry

To begin with the base of your Lavender Tarte Provençale, combine the flour and sugar in a large bowl. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Make a well in the center and add the egg and milk. Stir until the dough comes together. Turn out onto a floured surface and knead lightly.

Form the dough into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes. You can set a cooking timer to ensure precise chilling time.

Preparing the Filling

In a small saucepan, heat the cream, honey, and lavender over low heat until just before boiling. Remove from the heat and allow the mixture to infuse for about 30 minutes, letting the lavender release its essence.

Once infused, strain the lavender from the cream mixture. Add the vanilla extract and stir well to incorporate all flavors.

Cooking Instructions

Baking the Pastry

Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Roll out the pastry on a lightly floured surface, large enough to fit a 9-inch tart tin. Carefully lift into the tin, pressing into the sides. Trim away any excess pastry.

Line the pastry with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans to prevent the pastry from puffing up. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the weights and parchment and bake for another 10 minutes or until golden. Again, you can use a cooking timer to ensure accuracy.

Baking the Tarte

Reduce the oven temperature to 160°C (320°F). Pour the prepared lavender cream filling into the pastry shell. Place the tarte back in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is just set. It should barely wobble when shaken gently.

Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely on a wire rack, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

A Lavender Tarte Provençale is best enjoyed at room temperature or slightly chilled. For a touch of sophistication, garnish with a light dusting of icing sugar and sprinkle more edible lavender on top. Pair it with a glass of dessert wine or a cup of herbal tea for the perfect Provençale experience.

This tarte makes an elegant finish to any meal, during a sun-drenched afternoon in your garden or at a cozy evening gathering with friends.