Mango and pineapple tartare with coconut pesto

Mango and Pineapple Tartare with Coconut Pesto – A Tropical Symphony in Every Bite

If you're looking for a quick and elegant dessert that brings an explosion of tropical flavors, you've found the perfect recipe! The mango and pineapple tartare with coconut pesto is an innovative combination of fresh fruits, crunchy textures, and a splash of alcohol that will delight your senses. With simple yet special ingredients, this recipe will transport you to a sunny beach, even on the gloomiest days.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 2 hours and 50 minutes (including refrigeration time)
Servings: 6

Ingredients:

For the dough:
- 80 grams of butter at room temperature
- 80 grams of powdered sugar
- 2 egg yolks
- 1/2 vanilla bean (or 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract)
- 100 grams of flour
- A pinch of salt

For the tartare:
- 1 fresh pineapple, peeled
- 1 fresh mango, peeled
- 1 tablespoon of silver tequila

For the pesto:
- 100 grams of coconut flakes
- 100 grams of nuts (you can choose hazelnuts or peanuts)
- 1 tablespoon of nut oil
- 2 vanilla pods (or 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract)
- 1 tablespoon of soy milk (or other plant-based milk)
- 1 tablespoon of honey (or agave syrup for a vegan option)
- 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed orange juice

A Brief History of the Recipe

Over time, combinations of tropical fruits have been appreciated in various cultures as a way to bring freshness and vitality to daily meals. In this dessert, mango and pineapple intertwine with the intense flavors of vanilla and coconut, creating a unique culinary experience. Additionally, the integration of tequila adds a sophisticated touch, making this dessert a perfect choice for special occasions.

Step by Step – Preparation Guide

1. Preparing the dough:
- In a bowl, add the room-temperature butter and powdered sugar. Use a mixer or spatula to mix well until the mixture becomes light in color and creamy.
- Incorporate the egg yolks one at a time, mixing vigorously after each addition. This step will ensure a fluffy texture.
- Split the vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape out the seeds, adding them to the mixture. If using vanilla extract, add it now.
- Sift the flour and a pinch of salt into the mixture, folding gently with a spatula until combined. Avoid overmixing to prevent a dense dough.
- Shape the dough into discs using a 8 cm ring and cover them with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for 2 hours to firm up and make it easier to work with.

2. Baking the dough:
- Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius.
- Remove the dough discs from the refrigerator and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20 minutes, until golden. Allow to cool completely.

3. Preparing the tartare:
- Cut the pineapple and mango into small cubes. Place them in a sieve to drain excess juice for 20 minutes.
- Once drained, drizzle with silver tequila. This will add a slight kick and enhance the fruit flavors.

4. Preparing the coconut pesto:
- Grind the nuts finely using a food processor until they form a smooth paste.
- Add the coconut flakes, nut oil, vanilla seeds, soy milk, honey, and orange juice. Blend until you achieve a creamy paste with some texture.

5. Assembling the dessert:
- Using the same ring you used to shape the dough, place a generous layer of mango and pineapple tartare over each dough disc.
- Spread the coconut pesto on top, smoothing it out evenly to create a contrast of colors and textures.

6. Serving:
- This dessert is served cold, and for an extra touch, you can add a few fresh mint leaves. It pairs perfectly with a glass of prosecco or a tropical fruit cocktail.

Helpful Tips

- Choosing the fruits: Make sure the mango and pineapple are ripe for the perfect sweetness.
- Vegan option: Substitute butter with vegan margarine and honey with agave syrup.
- For added flavor: You can add a few drops of lime juice to the tartare for a tart kick.
- Calories and nutritional benefits: This dessert has about 250 calories per serving, rich in vitamins C and A, fiber, and antioxidants from the fruits, making it a healthy and refreshing option.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I substitute tequila with another alcohol?
- Yes, you can experiment with rum or vodka, depending on your preferences.

2. What other fruits can I use?
- You can add kiwi, papaya, or strawberries to diversify the flavors of the tartare.

3. How can I store the dessert?
- It is recommended to consume it immediately, but you can keep it in the refrigerator, covered, for 1-2 days.

So, savor every bite of this mango and pineapple tartare with coconut pesto. It's not just a dessert; it's a culinary journey that will make you dream of tropical vacations. Enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen and don’t forget to share this recipe with your loved ones! Bon appétit!