Welsh Sea Swell Tart

The Welsh Sea Swell Tart is a delectable dish that draws inspiration from both the rustic countryside and the bountiful seas that surround Wales. Known for its exquisite blend of land and sea flavors, this tart pays homage to the traditional culinary heritage of the Welsh people, combining fresh seafood with hearty produce.

History of the Welsh Sea Swell Tart

The roots of the Welsh Sea Swell Tart can be traced back to the coastal villages of Wales, where fishing has been a crucial part of daily life for centuries. Local cooks ingeniously used the catch of the day, often crab or mussels, paired with locally grown vegetables and herbs to create this iconic dish. With each community adding its unique twist, the tart has evolved over the years but remains a beloved staple in Welsh cuisine.

Ingredients

1. Puff Pastry - 500g
2. Crab Meat - 200g
3. Mussels - 300g
4. Leek - 1 large, finely sliced
5. Potato - 2 medium, peeled and diced
6. Double Cream - 150ml
7. Egg - 2, beaten
8. Parsley - a handful, chopped
9. Dill - a handful, chopped
10. Butter - 50g
11. Salt - to taste
12. Black Pepper - to taste
13. Lemon - juice and zest

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by cleaning the mussels under cold running water, scrubbing the shells and removing the beards. Discard any that do not close when tapped.

Peel and dice the potatoes, and finely slice the leek. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Seafood

In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the leeks and cook until soft. Add the mussels, cover, and cook for 5 minutes or until the shells have opened. Remove the mussels from their shells and set aside. Discard any that remain closed.

In a separate bowl, mix the crab meat with the mussels, and season with salt, black pepper, lemon juice, and zest.

Step 3: Assemble the Tart

Preheat your oven and timer to 200°C (400°F). Roll out the puff pastry to fit your tart tin and line it, trimming any excess. Prick the base with a fork.

Parboil the potatoes for 5 minutes, drain, and layer them across the bottom of the pastry case. Top with the seafood mixture, distributing evenly.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, mix the eggs with the double cream. Add the chopped parsley and dill. Pour this mixture over the tart filling, ensuring even coverage.

Step 5: Bake the Tart

Bake the tart for 25-30 minutes or until the filling is set and golden brown. Use a timer to avoid overcooking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Welsh Sea Swell Tart warm, accompanied by a fresh green salad or steamed greens. This tart pairs beautifully with a crisp, chilled white wine.

The combination of the creamy filling with the fresh sea flavors makes this tart a perfect dish for any special occasion or a delightful family meal, bringing the taste of the Welsh coast right onto your plate.