Rustic tart with blueberries and bananas

Rustic Blueberry and Banana Tart - A Simple and Delicious Treat

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6-8

In a world filled with sophisticated desserts, sometimes we crave a recipe that reminds us of childhood, warm summer days, and garden delights. This rustic blueberry and banana tart is not just a delicious choice but also a fantastic way to use ripe, hearty fruits. With a flaky crust and creamy filling, this tart will quickly become a family favorite.

A Bit of History

Tarts have a long-standing history, made in various forms and variations since ancient times. Often, these desserts were filled with seasonal fruits, just as we do today. The combination of blueberries and bananas is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients, bringing a burst of freshness and flavor to each slice.

Your Magical Ingredients

To prepare this tart, you will need the following ingredients:

Ingredients for the crust:
- 150 grams whole wheat flour
- 50 grams rice flour
- 1 free-range egg
- 1/2 teaspoon Himalayan sea salt
- 1 tablespoon packed muscovado sugar (plus 1 teaspoon for sprinkling at the end)
- 140 grams butter (80% fat, at room temperature)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice

Ingredients for the filling:
- 250 grams mascarpone (or Quark cheese)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 5 tablespoons fresh or frozen blueberries
- 1-2 small ripe bananas
- 1 quail egg for brushing

Practical Tips about Ingredients:
- Whole wheat flour adds a rich flavor and pleasant texture, but if you prefer a lighter tart, you can use all-purpose flour instead.
- Muscovado sugar adds a caramel note, but you can substitute it with brown or white sugar based on your preferences.
- Allspice is not only a fragrant spice but also has numerous health benefits, with anti-inflammatory properties.

Making the Rustic Tart - Step by Step

1. Prepare the crust: Start by adding whole wheat flour, rice flour, salt, muscovado sugar, the egg, and melted butter into a bowl. Use a mixer or spatula to combine the ingredients until you have a smooth dough. It will be slightly sticky, but don't worry, that's perfect!

2. Chill the dough: If you have time, you can refrigerate the dough from evening until morning. This step not only improves the texture but also gives you more time to relax before baking the tart.

3. Roll out the dough: On a floured surface, transfer the dough and shape it into a disc about 20 cm in diameter. Use a rolling pin, being careful not to roll it too thin to maintain stability.

4. Prepare the filling: In a separate bowl, mix the mascarpone or Quark cheese with the vanilla extract. Make sure it's well combined to avoid lumps in the filling.

5. Assemble the tart: Place parchment paper in the chosen baking dish and carefully transfer the dough onto it. Spread the mascarpone cream evenly over the dough, leaving a 6-7 cm border.

6. Add the fruits: Slice the bananas thinly and arrange them over the mascarpone cream. Add the washed and dried blueberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed for a flavorful bite in every slice.

7. Fold the edges: Using your fingers, fold the edges of the dough over the filling, creating a rustic look. This detail gives the tart a special charm.

8. Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. It's important to have it well preheated to achieve a perfectly golden crust.

9. Brush the dough: Use a silicone brush to glaze the dough with the quail egg, which will give it a lovely color and shine. If desired, you can sprinkle brown or muscovado sugar on top for added sweetness.

10. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and let it bake for 35 minutes, or until the dough turns golden and crispy. You'll be delighted by the aroma that fills your home!

11. Serve: Once the tart is ready, let it cool slightly. It can be served warm or cold, and will be equally delicious. You can add a dollop of Greek yogurt or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to complete the dessert.

Delicious Variations

This recipe is versatile! You can experiment with other fruits, such as raspberries or peaches, to create a different tart each time. You can also add chopped nuts or shredded coconut to the filling for extra texture.

Nutritional Benefits

Blueberries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, contributing to heart health and improved cognitive function. Bananas, on the other hand, are an excellent source of potassium and fiber, great for digestion. By combining these two fruits in a dessert, you not only enjoy a delicious treat but also gain valuable nutritional benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of flour?
Yes, you can experiment with gluten-free flour or oat flour for a healthier version.

2. Is this tart suitable for vegans?
You can adapt the recipe by using soft tofu instead of cheese and a flax egg for the dough.

3. How can I store leftover tart?
Keep the tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness for 2-3 days.

4. What drinks pair well with it?
This tart pairs wonderfully with fruit tea or a sweet white wine, enhancing the sweet flavors of the dessert.

I encourage you to try this simple and delicious rustic blueberry and banana tart recipe! It's a perfect choice for a family meal or to impress friends at a gathering. Each bite will transport you to a world of delightful flavors and pleasant textures, and you'll be proud of your culinary talent!