Tarta de Leche Gallega

Introduction to Tarta de Leche Gallega

Tarta de Leche Gallega is a traditional dessert from Galicia, a region located in the northwest of Spain. Known for its rich culinary history, Galicia offers a variety of unique dishes and sweets that reflect its cultural heritage. The Tarta de Leche Gallega is a simple, yet flavorful tart made primarily with milk, sugar, and spices, embodying the rustic and comforting essence of Galician cuisine.

The History of Tarta de Leche Gallega

Galicia, with its verdant landscapes and coastal villages, has a long-standing tradition of dairy farming. The abundant supply of high-quality milk has been central to Galician cooking, giving rise to various dairy-based desserts. Over the centuries, this tart has become a beloved dessert for family celebrations and festive gatherings, cherished for its simplicity and rich, creamy texture.

Ingredients for Tarta de Leche Gallega

This delightful tart requires just a few ingredients, most of which are kitchen staples, making it an accessible dessert for any home cook. Below is a list of ingredients you'll need to create the perfect Tarta de Leche Gallega.

• Milk - 1 liter
• Sugar - 200 grams
• Eggs - 4 large
• All-purpose flour - 200 grams
• Lemon zest - from 1 lemon
• Butter - for greasing the pan
• Cinnamon - 1 stick
• Vanilla extract - 1 teaspoon

Preparing Tarta de Leche Gallega

To create the perfect Tarta de Leche Gallega, follow these detailed steps to ensure a smooth and delicious result.

Step 1: Infusing the Milk

Begin by pouring the milk into a large saucepan. Add the cinnamon stick and the lemon zest. Heat the milk on medium heat until it begins to simmer. Keep a close eye on it to prevent it from boiling over. Once it starts to simmer, reduce the heat and let it infuse for about 5 minutes. Remove from heat, strain, and discard the cinnamon stick and lemon zest.

Step 2: Mixing the Base

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until you achieve a pale, frothy mixture. Slowly add the infused milk while continuously whisking to combine. Ensure the milk is cool enough to prevent curdling the eggs. Gradually sift in the all-purpose flour, stirring until smooth. Finally, add the vanilla extract and give it a final mix.

Step 3: Baking

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a tart pan with butter thoroughly, ensuring all sides are coated to prevent sticking. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 45-50 minutes until the tart is set and golden brown on top. Confirm it’s done by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. Every now and then, ensure you refer back to your cooking timer to keep track of the time.

Serving Tarta de Leche Gallega

Let the tart cool to room temperature before serving. It can be enjoyed as a standalone dessert or accompanied by a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The tart pairs beautifully with a warm cup of coffee or tea, enhancing its comforting nature. Ideal for gatherings, this dessert is bound to impress with its subtle sweetness and creamy texture.

Tips for Enjoying Tarta de Leche Gallega

• Ensure the milk used is fresh to achieve the best flavor.
• Do not rush the infusion process; the aromatic blend of cinnamon and lemon is key to the tart’s signature taste.
• For a slightly different texture, try replacing a small portion of flour with ground almonds.