Pea tart

Pea and Chicken Tart: A Savory Delight

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

When it comes to delicious and comforting dishes, pea and chicken tart is among the most cherished recipes. This tart is not only a burst of flavors, but it is also an excellent choice for a family lunch or a quick, flavorful dinner. Whether served warm or cold, the tart is sure to win the hearts of everyone around you.

The history of the recipe takes us back to old culinary traditions, where the flaky pastry and rich filling were combined to create dishes that brought people together around the table. The tart can be customized in countless ways, but the combination of chicken, cheese, and peas remains a favorite.

The ingredients needed for this recipe are simple, but each plays an essential role in achieving a perfect taste. Here’s what you need:

For the dough:
- 250 g flour
- 125 g butter (at room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon dry yeast
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt

For the filling:
- 300 g cottage cheese
- 2 eggs
- 100 g sour cream
- 1 jar of peas (about 400 g)
- 1 chicken breast (about 300 g)
- 4 cloves of garlic
- Oil for frying
- Fresh dill (to taste)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)

Step by step for a perfect result:

Step 1: Preparing the dough
Start by sifting the flour into a large bowl. Add the cubed butter at room temperature. It is important that the butter is soft, as it will incorporate better into the flour. Add the sugar, salt, and previously dissolved yeast in a little warm water. Add the egg and mix everything until you obtain a smooth, non-sticky dough. If the dough seems too sticky, you can add a little flour, but be careful not to overdo it.

After you have obtained the dough, wrap it in cling film and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This step is essential to allow the dough to rest and become easier to roll out.

Step 2: Preparing the filling
Meanwhile, you can prepare the filling. Cut the chicken breast into small cubes and season with salt and pepper. In a frying pan, heat a little oil and fry the chicken cubes until golden. It is important not to overcook them, so they don’t become dry. Once browned, remove the chicken to a plate and let it cool.

In another bowl, mix the cottage cheese with the sour cream, eggs, and chopped dill. Add the drained peas (if using canned peas, make sure to rinse them well) and gently mix with a spoon. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Assembling the tart
After the dough has been in the fridge, take it out and roll it on a floured surface. Roll the dough into a thick sheet of about 0.5 cm. Place it in a greased and floured baking dish, making sure to raise the dough along the edges.

Evenly distribute the chicken cubes on the bottom of the tart, then add the cheese and pea mixture, ensuring it is well distributed. You can add a final layer of cheese mixture for extra creaminess.

Step 4: Baking
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Bake the tart for about 20 minutes. After this interval, remove the tart and brush it with a beaten egg to achieve a golden and appetizing crust. Put the tart back in the oven for another 10-15 minutes, until it turns golden brown.

Step 5: Serving
Once the tart is ready, let it cool slightly before cutting. You can serve it warm, alongside a fresh salad or a side of steamed vegetables. It is also delicious cold, making it perfect for a picnic or a lunch meal.

Practical tips:
- If you want a richer tart, you can add some slices of melted cheese between layers.
- Instead of chicken, you can use turkey meat or even a vegetarian option, such as mushrooms or zucchini.
- You can experiment with different herbs, such as basil or coriander, to add another level of flavor.

Nutritional information:
This pea and chicken tart recipe is rich in protein due to the chicken and cottage cheese, while the peas provide an excellent source of fiber and vitamins. A serving of tart contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the specific ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of cheese? Yes, feta or mozzarella cheese can be excellent alternatives!
- Can the tart be frozen? Yes, you can freeze the tart before baking it. You can bake it directly from the freezer, but it will require a little extra baking time.
- Can I replace the peas with another ingredient? Absolutely! Spinach or broccoli are delicious options that pair well with cheese.

This pea and chicken tart is more than just a dish - it is a recipe that blends tradition with innovation, offering a wonderful taste and perfect texture. Don’t hesitate to try it and adapt it to your preferences. Cooking is an art, and every recipe is an opportunity to express your creativity!