Cheese and Pea Tart

Cheese and Pea Tart: An Explosion of Flavors and Textures

The cheese and pea tart is a dish that brings smiles to everyone's faces, thanks to its combination of simple yet delicious ingredients. This recipe stands out for its versatility and ease of preparation, making it perfect for a quick lunch or a more sophisticated dinner. With a crispy crust and a delightful filling, this tart is more than just a dish; it's a culinary experience that will delight your taste buds.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients:

For the crust:
- 400 g wheat flour
- 100 g cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 125 g margarine (or butter for a richer taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Cold milk, as needed (about 100 ml)

For the filling:
- 400 g cheese
- 2-3 tablespoons peas (fresh or frozen)
- 200 g ham (or other deli meat of choice)
- 3 eggs
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 3-4 tablespoons flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- A bunch of fresh dill (finely chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste

A Brief History of the Recipe

The cheese and pea tart is a classic example of a dish that combines culinary traditions with seasonal ingredients. Cheese, a protein-rich dairy product, has often been used in various dishes throughout history due to its versatility and nutritional value. Peas, on the other hand, have been cultivated for centuries and are appreciated for their sweet flavor and crunchy texture. Combining these ingredients not only offers a delicious taste but also a vibrant palette of colors that makes any meal more appealing.

Step-by-Step Preparation of the Tart

1. Preparing the crust: In a large bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, and margarine. Use your fingers to rub the margarine into the flour until the mixture becomes crumbly. This is a crucial step to achieve a light and crispy crust. Add the salt and baking powder, mixing well.

2. Adding the milk: Gradually add the cold milk, a little at a time, stirring continuously until you obtain a non-sticky dough. A ball of dough should form that can be easily handled. Don’t worry if the dough isn’t perfect; it will even out in the oven.

3. Refrigerating the dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step will help the dough firm up and maintain its shape during baking.

4. Preparing the filling: In a separate bowl, mix the cheese with the sour cream and egg yolks. Add the flour and baking powder, blending the mixture well. Now is the time to add the peas, chopped dill, and diced ham. Season with salt and pepper to taste, being careful not to overdo it, as the ham may already be salty.

5. Beating the egg whites: In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until frothy. This will add an airy texture to the filling, making the tart fluffier. Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the cheese filling, being careful not to deflate the foam.

6. Preparing the pan: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a tart pan with butter. Roll out the refrigerated dough on a lightly floured surface, then transfer it to the pan. Ensure that the dough evenly covers the bottom and sides of the pan. Gently press it down using your fingers and prick it with a fork to prevent puffing during baking.

7. Baking the tart: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. After this time, remove the pan from the oven and pour in the cheese and pea filling, leveling it out evenly. Put the tart back in the oven and bake for about 30 minutes or until the top is golden and the filling is set.

8. Serving: Once baked, let the tart cool slightly before slicing. You can serve the tart warm alongside a spoonful of yogurt or a fresh salad for a delicious contrast. Its taste is perfectly balanced, and the crispy crust complements the creamy filling.

Helpful Tips

- Ingredient variations: You can experiment with different types of cheese or add vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to customize the filling. Additionally, for a vegetarian option, you can omit the ham.
- Storing the tart: If there’s leftover tart, you can store it in the refrigerator, covered, for 2-3 days. It can be reheated in the oven to regain its crispy crust.
- Recommended drinks: The cheese and pea tart pairs wonderfully with a glass of dry white wine or fresh lemonade. This combination will highlight the delicate flavors of the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! You can replace the cheese with cottage cheese or ricotta for a different flavor.
2. How can I make the tart fluffier? Make sure to gently fold in the beaten egg whites without deflating them, and don’t bake the tart for too long.
3. Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians? Yes, if you omit the ham and choose to use only plant-based ingredients.
4. Can I prepare the tart in advance? Certainly! You can prepare the dough and filling a day ahead and assemble and bake them when you’re ready.

The cheese and pea tart is not just a delicious dish but also an excellent way to impress your family and friends. By experimenting with ingredients and adding a personal touch, you will create a unique recipe that will surely become your favorite. So, unleash your imagination and enjoy every bite!