Desserts > History of Desserts > Medieval Desserts > Sweet Pies and Tarts in the Middle Ages
Medieval Pear Tart (Tarte aux Poires)
A delightful pear tart recipe inspired by medieval European cuisine. This tart features a flaky crust and a subtly spiced pear filling, offering a taste of history.
Ingredients
- 250 g All-purpose flour
- 125 g Cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 5-7 tablespoons Iced water
- 4 medium Pears, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 60 ml Honey
- 1/2 teaspoon Ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon Ground cloves
- 1 Egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Prepare the Tart Crust
In a large bowl, combine the flour and cold butter. Use a pastry blender or your fingertips to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the iced water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix. Flatten the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Prepare the Pear Filling
In a bowl, gently toss the sliced pears with honey, ground ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. Ensure the pears are evenly coated with the spices and honey.
Assemble the Tart
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to a 12-inch circle. Carefully transfer the dough to a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom. Trim the edges of the dough and crimp them decoratively. Arrange the spiced pear slices in the tart pan in a circular pattern. Brush the edges of the crust with the beaten egg.
Bake the Tart
Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Bake the tart for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the pears are tender. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with foil.
Cool and Serve
Let the tart cool completely in the tart pan before serving. Dust with powdered sugar (optional) before serving. Enjoy your taste of medieval culinary history!
Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product
Note: These values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods. Calories: 220-250 kcal Carbohydrates: 30-35g Protein: 2-3g Fat: 10-12g
Other Important Considerations for Nutrition
This tart is relatively high in carbohydrates due to the flour and honey. Consider using whole wheat flour for a slightly healthier crust. The sugar content can be adjusted by using less honey, or replacing it with a sugar alternative like maple syrup. For those with dietary restrictions, ensure all ingredients are suitable for their needs. Adjust portion sizes as needed to manage calorie and carbohydrate intake.
FAQ
-
Can I use a different type of fruit?
Yes, apples or quince would also work well in this tart. Adjust the spices accordingly. -
Can I make the crust ahead of time?
Yes, the crust can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. -
How do I store the leftover tart?
Store leftover tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.