Tourtière Landaises

Tourtière Landaises is a traditional French pastry originating from the Gascony region, particularly the Landes department. It's a celebratory cake often enjoyed during special occasions and festivals. The delicate layers of pastry, rich fillings, and aromatic spices make it a unique dessert representing the culinary heritage of southwestern France.

History of Tourtière Landaises

The Tourtière has its roots in the rural traditions where it was prepared using simple and readily available ingredients. Originally made by farmers' wives, this dessert was a staple during celebratory feasts, symbolizing hospitality and togetherness. Over time, it gained popularity beyond the regional boundaries, becoming a cherished delight across France.

Ingredients

• Pastry Dough
• Apples
• Prunes
• Armagnac
• Sugar
• Butter
• Cinnamon
• Nutmeg
• Vanilla Extract
• Lemon Zest

Preparation

1. Preparing the Filling

Apples and prunes are the heart of the Tourtière Landaises. Start by peeling and slicing the apples into thin wedges. Dice the prunes into small pieces. Soak the diced prunes in Armagnac for 30 minutes to enhance their flavor.

2. Making the Dough

The delicate layers of the pastry are crucial. Using pastry dough, roll it out thinly. The goal is to achieve see-through layers when baked, which will hold the rich filling beautifully.

Cooking Process

1. Assembling the Tourtière

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (or use a cooking timer to track baking time).
2. In a buttered baking dish, place one layer of rolled pastry dough.
3. Spread half of the soaked prunes and sliced apples evenly over the dough.
4. Sprinkle a layer of sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of lemon zest on top.
5. Cover with another layer of pastry dough and repeat the filling process.
6. Finish with a top layer of pastry dough and brush with melted butter.

2. Baking

Place the assembled Tourtière in the oven. Bake for approximately 45 minutes until golden brown. Use your cooking timer to avoid over-baking. The layers should be crisp, and the filling should bubble and emit a sweet aroma.

Enjoying the Tourtière Landaises

Once baked, allow the Tourtière to cool slightly before serving. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Pair it with a glass of chilled Armagnac or your favorite tea. The richness of the Tourtière is complemented by the light, flaky pastry and the sweet and tart filling, bringing an authentic taste of Gascony to your table.

As you indulge in the Tourtière Landaises, you'll appreciate the harmony of flavors—the sweetness of apples and prunes, the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg, rounded off by the fragrant vanilla and zesty lemon.