STRAWBERRY TART

Strawberry Tart - An explosion of freshness in every slice

Strawberry season is the perfect time to indulge in the sweet-tart flavor of these delicious fruits. The strawberry tart is not just a dessert; it is a true celebration of summer, bringing together creamy textures and fresh aromas. This simple and quick recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you want to impress guests or treat yourself to something sweet at home.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 8

Ingredients
For the crust:
- 2 eggs
- 150 g flour
- 250 g + 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
- 1 lemon (zest and juice)
- 100 ml water
- 1 packet colored gelatin

For the pudding cream:
- 1 packet vanilla pudding powder
- 250 ml milk

For the topping:
- 200 g strawberries (or other seasonal fruits)
- 3 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 essence of rum

Preparing the strawberry tart:

Step 1: Preparing the crust
Start by separating the egg whites from the yolks. In a large bowl, beat the egg whites with a mixer on high speed until you obtain a firm foam. Gradually add 250 g of sugar and lemon juice, continuing to mix until you achieve a shiny meringue. This step is essential as the meringue will give the tart an airy and light texture.

In another bowl, mix the yolks with the sifted flour, baking powder, grated lemon zest, and water. Use a spatula to fold the meringue into the yolk mixture, being careful not to lose the air in the composition. This is an important trick; fold with gentle up-and-down motions.

Grease a tart pan with butter and dust it with flour. Pour the mixture into the pan and bake at 180°C for 30-40 minutes or until the tart is golden and a stick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, let the tart cool on a plate.

Step 2: Preparing the pudding cream
In a small bowl, mix the pudding powder with a little cold milk and 1 tablespoon of sugar. This will help prevent lumps from forming in the pudding. Add the pudding mixture to the remaining milk and heat over medium heat, stirring constantly for 2-3 minutes until the pudding thickens. Once ready, let it cool slightly and spread it evenly over the cooled tart.

Step 3: Assembling the strawberry tart
Wash the strawberries under cold running water, then slice them. Arrange the strawberry slices nicely on top of the pudding cream, creating an attractive arrangement. Not only will they add a colorful look to the tart, but they will also provide an explosion of flavor.

Step 4: Preparing the syrup
In a small saucepan, combine 3 tablespoons of water with 1 tablespoon of sugar and the rum essence. Heat the mixture over low heat just until the sugar dissolves, then add the gelatin and mix well until completely dissolved. It is important not to boil the mixture after adding the gelatin, as this would alter its properties.

Carefully pour the syrup over the strawberry slices, ensuring that each slice is evenly coated. Place the tart in the refrigerator for 1 hour to set.

Serving and variations
Once the tart has cooled and the syrup has set, it is ready to be served! You can garnish it with fresh mint leaves or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra burst of flavor. If you want to experiment, replace the strawberries with other seasonal fruits such as apricots, sour cherries, or cherries to bring a touch of variety.

Nutritional benefits
Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, making them a healthy ingredient to add to your diet. The flour used in the crust provides essential carbohydrates, while the milk brings a good source of calcium. This tart is not just a treat but also a nutritious option for those who want to indulge without guilt.

Calories
A serving of strawberry tart contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used and the portions served. It is a dessert that, when consumed in moderation, can be part of a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use frozen fruits?
Yes, but make sure to let them thaw completely and drain any excess water before adding them to the tart.

2. What type of sugar can I use?
You can use brown sugar or coconut sugar for a more caramelized taste.

3. How can I make the tart less sweet?
Reduce the amount of sugar in the meringue and pudding cream, being careful to maintain the texture.

4. Can I prepare the tart a day in advance?
Sure! This dessert keeps well in the refrigerator, but make sure to cover it to prevent drying out.

The strawberry tart is more than just a dessert; it is a culinary experience that blends tradition with freshness. Share this recipe with your loved ones and enjoy every delicious slice!