Rustic apple tart

Rustic Apple Tart: A Fragrant Delight of Caramelized Apples

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 8

In every household, there are recipes that become traditions, and apple tart is certainly one of them. This rustic tart brings a touch of nostalgia, evoking childhood memories when enticing aromas greeted us with every flip of a photo album page. With a crispy crust and a sweet-tart filling, the apple tart is the perfect dessert for any occasion, whether it's a family dinner or a gathering with friends.

Ingredients:

For the crust:
- 300 g flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 120 g cold butter (cut into cubes)
- 1 tablespoon lard
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon cold milk
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest

For the filling:
- 6 apples (ideally tart varieties like Granny Smith or Golden Delicious)
- 6 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon butter
- juice from 1/2 lemon (to prevent the apples from oxidizing)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, depending on your preferences)

Instructions:

1. Making the crust
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and lemon zest. This mixture will add a fresh taste and pleasant aroma to the crust. Add the cold butter and lard, and using your fingers, mix until you achieve a texture similar to wet sand. This is the classic technique for making a flaky crust.

2. Adding the wet ingredients
Beat the egg in another bowl and add it to the flour mixture along with the cold milk. Mix well until you have a smooth dough. If the dough is too dry, you can add a few drops of cold water. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour. This will help solidify the butter, giving the crust a better texture.

3. Preparing the filling
Peel the apples and slice them not too thinly. In a skillet, add 6 tablespoons of sugar and 1 teaspoon of butter. Let them melt over medium heat, then add the apple slices and lemon juice. Sauté the apples for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the juice released by the apples reduces and the apples caramelize slightly. Finally, you can add the cinnamon, adjusting the amount to your taste.

4. Assembling the tart
Once the dough has chilled, remove it and roll it out on a lightly floured surface, forming a round sheet larger than the tart pan. Place the dough in the greased tart pan and trim the excess dough from the edges. Using a fork, pierce the base to prevent it from puffing up during baking.

5. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Spread the apple filling evenly over the crust. Bake the tart for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crispy.

6. Serving
Once the tart is done, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve it dusted with powdered sugar and, for an extra treat, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. The flavors complement each other perfectly!

Tips and useful advice:

- Choosing apples: Use a mix of different types of apples to add complexity to the flavor. Tart apples pair excellently with sweet ones, and the varied texture will add interest.
- Gluten-free option: If you want a gluten-free version, you can replace the flour with a combination of almond flour and rice flour, but be sure to add a binding agent, such as an extra egg.
- Spices: Experiment with spices! You can add nutmeg or ginger for a more exotic flavor.

Nutritional benefits:

Apples are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants, making them a healthy ingredient. Additionally, butter and lard contribute to healthy fat intake, and sugar can be replaced with honey or a natural sweetener for a healthier option.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other fruits?
Yes, you can experiment with other fruits like pears or peaches, which caramelize just as well!

2. How can I store the tart?
The tart keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. I recommend reheating it slightly before serving to restore its crispy texture.

3. Can it be frozen?
Absolutely! You can freeze the tart before baking. Make sure it is well wrapped to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to bake it, let it thaw at room temperature and bake according to the instructions.

Pair this rustic tart with a cup of fruit tea or a glass of sweet white wine for an unforgettable culinary experience. Each slice will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones, and you'll be proud of your creation. Making the apple tart is not only a delightful activity but also a perfect opportunity to gather the family around the table, sharing moments of joy and savoring every bite. Bon appétit!