Mini tarts with cream cheese and chicken pastrama

Name: Mini tarts with cream cheese and chicken pastrama - Viorela J.
Ingredients: Dough: 300 g flour; 125 g butter; 2 egg yolks; a pinch of salt. Filling: 1 box of Almette cream cheese; 200 g chicken pastrama. Decoration: pickled cucumbers; pickled peppers; parsley leaves.

Appetizers - Mini tarts with cream cheese and chicken pastrama by Viorela J. - Recipia

Mini tarts with cream cheese and chicken pastrama Who doesn't love a savory and attractive appetizer that delights both the eyes and the taste buds? Today, I will guide you step by step in preparing delicious mini tarts filled with fine cream cheese and chicken pastrama, perfect for any occasion. These tarts are not only easy to make but also very versatile, suitable for parties, gatherings with friends, or even as an elegant family snack. Preparation time: 30 minutes Baking time: 20-25 minutes Total time: 1 hour Number of servings: 12 mini tarts The history of mini tarts is fascinating, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. They have evolved over time, becoming a symbol of gastronomic refinement. This type of dish is perfect for adding a sophisticated touch to your table, and the combination of cheese and chicken pastrama is simply irresistible. Necessary ingredients: For the dough: - 300 g flour - 125 g butter (preferably at room temperature for easy mixing) - 2 egg yolks - A pinch of salt For the filling: - 1 box of Almette cream cheese (approximately 200 g) - 200 g chicken pastrama (finely chopped) For decoration: - Cucumbers - Pickled peppers - Fresh parsley leaves Step by step: 1. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour with a pinch of salt. Add the diced butter and, using your fingers, knead until you achieve a texture similar to breadcrumbs. It is important that the butter is well incorporated into the flour, as this will give the dough a flaky consistency. 2. Add the egg yolks and mix everything until a homogeneous dough forms. Do not knead too much to avoid developing the gluten in the flour, which could make the dough too elastic. 3. Form a ball from the dough and wrap it in plastic wrap. Let the dough rest in the refrigerator for one hour. This step is essential to allow the butter to harden, which will make the dough easier to handle. 4. Preheat the oven to 180°C. 5. After the dough has chilled, remove it and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Here comes the fun part: press each piece of dough into the tart molds, ensuring that you evenly cover the bottom and sides. 6. Bake the mini tarts for 20-25 minutes, until the edges become slightly golden. Make sure to check the tarts after 20 minutes, as each oven bakes differently. 7. Meanwhile, prepare the filling. In a food processor, combine the chopped chicken pastrama with the Almette cream cheese, mixing until you achieve a smooth and creamy mixture. The savory taste of the pastrama will blend perfectly with the fine texture of the cheese. 8. Once the tarts are baked and have cooled slightly, fill them with the cheese and pastrama mixture. Use a spatula or a spoon to evenly distribute the filling. 9. Decorate each mini tart with thin slices of cucumber and pickled peppers. These elements not only enhance the presentation of the dish but also add a touch of freshness and crunchiness. 10. Finish by sprinkling fresh parsley leaves on top for an extra pop of color and flavor. Practical tips: - Make sure the butter is at room temperature for easy mixing. If it is too cold, the dough will be hard to work with. - You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or feta, to achieve varied flavors. - If you want to make the mini tarts even healthier, you can use whole wheat flour instead of white flour. - These mini tarts can be served warm or cold. They are usually more appreciated when served at room temperature. Frequently asked questions: 1. Can I use other types of meat instead of chicken pastrama? Of course! You can use ham or even turkey meat. Experiment with your favorite ingredients! 2. What is the best way to store the mini tarts? They can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days in an airtight container. I recommend filling them with cream cheese just before serving to maintain the tart's crispy texture. 3. What drinks pair well with these mini tarts? These mini tarts pair perfectly with a dry white wine or freshly made lemonade. Additionally, a craft beer could complement the flavors very well. Nutritional benefits: These mini tarts are a good source of protein due to the cheese and chicken pastrama, and using fresh ingredients makes them a healthy choice. Almette cheese provides a calcium boost, essential for bone health. I hope this recipe for mini tarts with cream cheese and chicken pastrama inspires you to cook and enjoy delicious moments with your loved ones. Experiment, adapt, and add a personal touch to the recipe to make it truly unique! Enjoy your meal!