Strawberry tart

Delicious Vanilla Tart with Fresh Fruits

Today, I invite you to prepare a delicious tart that is sure to impress everyone! This recipe combines a light and airy crust with a velvety vanilla cream, perfectly complemented by fresh fruits. Whether you enjoy it at a birthday celebration, a gathering with friends, or simply to indulge yourself, this tart will quickly become everyone's favorite.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 2 hours and 55 minutes (including cooling time)
Number of servings: 8

Recipe History
The tart is a classic dessert that dates back to ancient times. Its origins can be found in various cultures and traditions, each with its own variations of fillings and crusts. This vanilla and fresh fruit tart recipe blends tradition with a touch of innovation, offering a perfect balance between sweetness and acidity.

Ingredients
For the crust
- 4 medium eggs
- 120 g sugar
- 120 g flour
- 4 tablespoons oil (choose a neutral oil for a subtler taste)

For the vanilla cream
- 600 ml milk (preferably whole for a richer cream)
- 4 egg yolks
- 130 g sugar
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- Seeds from one vanilla pod (or 1 packet of vanilla extract)
- 60 g cornstarch (for a creamy texture)

For decoration
- 250 g strawberries (fresh, well-ripened)
- 1 packet of tart gelatin
- 1 small banana (optional, for added flavor and texture)

Step-by-step Instructions

Preparing the crust
1. Preparing the oven: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). It is essential to have the oven well-prepared to achieve a perfect crust.

2. Beating the egg whites: In a clean bowl, add the egg whites and a pinch of salt. Using an electric mixer, beat the egg whites until foamy. This step is crucial for obtaining a light and airy texture.

3. Adding the sugar: Continue mixing, gradually adding one tablespoon of sugar at a time. Make sure the sugar completely dissolves before adding the next tablespoon. You will know it’s ready when the mixture becomes firm and glossy.

4. Incorporating the egg yolks: In another bowl, mix the egg yolks with the oil. Add the yolk mixture to the egg whites, being careful not to lose the air in the mixture. Use a spatula to gently fold in the ingredients.

5. Incorporating the flour: Finally, add the flour, one tablespoon at a time, gently folding from top to bottom. This will ensure a fine and light texture.

6. Baking the crust: Grease and flour a tart pan. Pour the mixture into the pan and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the crust is firm and easily pulls away from the edges of the pan. Check with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, the crust is ready.

Preparing the vanilla cream
1. Heating the milk: In a saucepan, heat the milk along with the vanilla seeds (or vanilla extract). Keep the mixture over low heat, being careful not to let it boil.

2. Mixing the egg yolks: In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks with the sugar until creamy. Then add the cornstarch and mix well.

3. Combining the ingredients: When the milk is warm, gradually add one tablespoon at a time to the yolk mixture, stirring continuously to avoid curdling the eggs (this process is called tempering).

4. Thickening the cream: Pour the mixture back into the saucepan and place it over medium heat. Stir constantly until the cream thickens, like a pudding. When ready, add the vanilla sugar and mix.

5. Cooling the cream: Let the cream cool slightly, then pour it over the completely cooled crust.

Decorating the tart
1. Preparing the fruits: Slice the strawberries thinly. If desired, you can also add banana slices for extra flavor and texture.

2. Adding the gelatin: Prepare the gelatin according to the instructions on the packet and pour it over the fruits, ensuring they are well covered.

3. Cooling the tart: Let the tart chill in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours, so the gelatin sets and the flavors meld.

Serving Suggestions
Serve this delicious tart slightly chilled, alongside a scoop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a perfect temperature contrast. A cup of green tea or a sweet sparkling wine can prove to be ideal accompaniments to complete the culinary experience.

Useful Tips and Variations
- Fruit variations: Instead of strawberries, you can use any seasonal fruit, such as peaches, raspberries, or blueberries.
- Gluten-free crust: Replace the flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-friendly version.
- Chocolate cream: If you want to add a chocolate note, replace part of the milk with melted chocolate for a decadent cream.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use plant-based milk? Yes, almond or coconut milk can be an excellent alternative for a vegan version.
2. How long can the tart be stored? The tart can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, but it is best consumed fresh.
3. How can I make vegetarian gelatin? Replace gelatin with agar-agar, following the instructions on the package.

The nutritional benefits of this tart include the vitamins from the fruits, the proteins from the eggs, and the calcium from the milk, making it a healthier choice compared to many other desserts. Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to put on your apron and start your culinary adventure! Enjoy!