Mini savory tarts

Mini Savory Tarts: The Perfect Bite-sized Flavor

Today, I invite you to discover the recipe for these delicious mini savory tarts, a perfect choice for an appetizer, snack, or even a savory breakfast. These mini tarts, which my friend humorously calls 'mini-pizzas', are versatile, easy to prepare, and full of flavor. Let's get to work and transform simple ingredients into delights that will please everyone's taste buds!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total: 1 hour
Number of servings: 10 mini tarts

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 140 g butter (at room temperature)
- 260 g flour
- 1 egg
- A pinch of salt
- 4 tablespoons of milk

For the filling:
- 1 onion (preferably white or yellow)
- Olive oil (or butter, for a richer taste)
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste (or tomato puree)
- Smoked meat: kaiser, pork belly, or any other smoked meat you have in the fridge
- Cottage cheese or cheese (optional: combine both for a more complex flavor)

Preparation

Step 1: Making the dough
1. In a large bowl, mix the soft butter with the flour until you get a sandy texture.
2. Add the egg, salt, and milk, mixing well until the dough becomes homogeneous. It’s important not to knead too much, as the tarts will become tough.
3. Form a ball from the dough, wrap it in cling film, and let it chill in the fridge for 15-20 minutes. This step will help the dough become easier to roll out.

Step 2: Preparing the filling
1. In a frying pan, heat a few tablespoons of olive oil. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté over medium heat until it becomes translucent. This step will add a delicious flavor to the filling.
2. Add the smoked meat cut into small cubes and let everything cook together for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The smoked meat will release its juices and flavor the onion.
3. Once the onion and meat are well cooked, add the tomato paste and a cup of water, and let the mixture simmer until the liquid reduces. This will concentrate the flavors and create a delicious filling.

Step 3: Forming and baking the mini tarts
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Remove the dough from the fridge and roll it out on a floured surface until you get a thin sheet.
2. Cut circles from the dough using a cutter or a glass, then place them in the tart molds. Make sure the dough covers the edges well.
3. Bake the mini tarts in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until golden.
4. Remove the tarts from the oven and fill them with the meat and onion mixture, distributing it evenly.
5. Grate cheese or cheese on top, as preferred, and return to the oven for another 5 minutes, until the cheese melts and turns golden.

Serving
These mini savory tarts can be served warm or cold, making them excellent for a party or a quick snack. You can accompany them with a fresh salad or a yogurt herb dip for an extra touch of freshness. They are also ideal for packing in lunches for work or school.

Tips and Useful Advice
- Variations: You can add vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the filling for a healthier and more colorful option.
- Cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese: brie, mozzarella, or even a mix of cheeses for a more interesting flavor.
- Dough: If you want a crispier dough, replace part of the butter with lard or use olive oil instead of butter.
- Serving: Offer the mini tarts with a glass of white wine or a refreshing drink to balance the savory flavors.

Nutritional Benefits
These mini tarts are rich in protein due to the meat and cheese filling, but they also provide complex carbohydrates from the flour. When consumed in moderation, this recipe can be a good choice for a hearty breakfast or an energizing snack.

History of Mini Tarts
Mini tarts have a long history, with deep roots in the cuisine of many cultures. They evolved from large tarts, which were often filled with meat or vegetables and served on special occasions. Today, mini tarts are appreciated for their versatility and ease of preparation, bringing a touch of elegance to any meal.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use store-bought dough?
Yes, you can use store-bought tart dough to save time. Just make sure to follow the baking instructions on the package.

2. How can I store mini tarts?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat them in the oven to restore their crispy texture.

3. Can I freeze mini tarts?
Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Place them on a tray and freeze, then transfer them to freezer bags. Bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few minutes to the baking time.

These mini savory tarts are not only delicious but also an excellent way to use up leftover smoked meat or vegetables. Start your culinary adventure with this simple and quick recipe, and turn every meal into a special occasion. Enjoy!