Tarte aux Prunes d'Oc
Introduction
Tarte aux Prunes d'Oc is a classic French dessert that hails from the southwest region of France, known as Occitanie. This delightful plum tart embodies the rich agricultural tradition of the area, where plum orchards are bountiful, and it's a staple in family gatherings during the late summer and early autumn harvest season. The origins of this tart trace back centuries, showcasing the beautiful marriage between buttery pastry and the natural sweetness of the plums, making it a cherished recipe passed down through generations.
Ingredients
For the Pastry:
For the Filling:
- 1 kg ripe Plums
- 50g Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 50g ground Almonds
- 2 tablespoons Honey
- Zest from 1 Lemon
Preparation
Step 1: Make the Pastry
Start by combining the flour and a pinch of salt in a large mixing bowl. Add the diced, chilled butter and rub it into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Stir in the sugar. Beat the egg lightly and add it to the bowl, mixing it until a dough starts to form. Knead the dough briefly until smooth, wrap it in cling film, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Plums
While the pastry chills, wash the plums thoroughly. Cut them in half, remove the pits, and set aside the plum halves in a bowl. Toss the plum halves with sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. This mix will bring out the natural sweetness of the plums and enhance the flavor of the tart.
Cooking Process
Step 3: Roll Out the Pastry
Take the chilled pastry out of the refrigerator. Roll it out on a floured surface to fit a 25cm tart tin. Carefully place the pastry in the tin, gently pressing it into the sides. Trim any overhang. Prick the base of the pastry with a fork. Line the pastry with baking paper and fill with baking beans or rice to blind-bake the base. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (356°F) for 15 minutes. Remove the paper and beans, then bake for another 5 minutes until pale golden.
Step 4: Assemble the Tart
Sprinkle the pastry base with ground almonds to create a barrier that prevents it from becoming soggy. Arrange the prepared plums on top in concentric circles. Drizzle honey over the top for added sweetness and a beautiful glaze.
Step 5: Bake the Tart
Return the tart to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the plums are tender and the edges of the pastry are golden and crisp. Keep an eye on the tart and adjust the temperature if necessary.
How to Enjoy Tarte aux Prunes d'Oc
Allow the tart to cool slightly before serving. Tarte aux Prunes d'Oc is best enjoyed warm as a dessert or as a sweet treat at tea time. Pair it with a dollop of fresh cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to complement the tartness of the plums. Pour yourself a glass of dessert wine, and you’ve got yourself the perfect ending to a delightful meal. Remember, timing is everything in cooking, so use a reliable cooking timer to ensure perfectly baked results.
Conclusion
Tarte aux Prunes d'Oc is a testament to the rich culinary heritage of the Occitanie region and highlights the use of simple, quality ingredients to bring out magnificent flavors. This traditional dessert is not only easy to make but also a beautiful ode to the changing seasons, especially celebrating the bounty of fruits prunes provide. Creating this dish allows you to share a taste of French tradition with your friends and family, creating memorable dining occasions.