Upside-down plum tart

Upside-Down Dessert: Plum Tatin Tart

The Tatin tart is a classic recipe famous for its spectacular upside-down presentation, but today we’ll add a twist by using plums instead of apples. This upside-down dessert is sure to steal the show at your table, offering a perfect blend of sweet flavors with a hint of tartness from the plums. Let’s embark on this delightful tart-making adventure together!

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 50-55 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients
- 1 roll of puff pastry
- 1 kg of plums (a mix of red and yellow plums for a pleasant contrast)
- 150 g of granulated sugar
- 50 g of butter
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
- A pinch of salt (to enhance the flavors)

A Brief History
The Tatin tart was created from a culinary mistake when two sisters intended to make a traditional tart but accidentally reversed the ingredients in the process. The result was so delicious that it became a classic. This plum recipe adds a touch of freshness and a slight tartness, perfect for celebrating the summer fruit season.

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Preparing the Plums
1. Wash the plums in cold water, then cut them in half and remove the pits. If you prefer to leave them whole, ensure they are small and uniform in size.
2. Practical Tip: Choose ripe yet firm plums to prevent them from disintegrating during baking. Yellow plums add a touch of sweetness, while red plums provide a pleasant acidity.

Step 2: Caramelizing the Sugar
1. In a skillet or round baking dish, add the granulated sugar and 50 g of butter. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar melts and turns golden.
2. Trick: Don’t stir the sugar too often to avoid crystallization. Allow it to caramelize evenly.

Step 3: Adding the Plums
1. Once the sugar has caramelized, add the sliced plums to the skillet. Sprinkle the vanilla sugar and cinnamon on top. Gently stir to coat the plums with the caramel.
2. Let the mixture cook for 2-3 minutes until the plums begin to soften slightly.

Step 4: Preparing the Pastry
1. Preheat the oven to 180-200°C.
2. Unroll the puff pastry and place it on a working surface. Fold the edges of the pastry to create a border, which will prevent the caramel from overflowing.
3. Cover the plums with the pastry, ensuring it seals well with the edges of the dish. Make a small hole in the center to allow steam to escape during baking.

Step 5: Baking the Tart
1. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and crispy.
2. Note: Check occasionally to ensure it doesn’t burn. The aroma of caramel will fill your kitchen!

Step 6: Inverting the Tart
1. Once baked, let the tart cool for 15 minutes. This step is crucial for allowing the plums to release more easily.
2. Place a rack or a large plate over the dish and carefully invert it. Wait a few minutes before lifting the dish to avoid breaking the plums.

Serving
Serve the tart warm, plain, or with a topping of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. Red currants are an excellent choice for garnish, adding a splash of color and a contrast of acidity.

Nutritional Information
- Calories per serving: approximately 250 kcal
- Nutritional Benefits: Plums are rich in fiber and vitamins A and C, benefiting digestion and skin health.

Variations and Suggestions
- Try adding caramelized nuts or almonds over the plums for added texture.
- For a more intense flavor, add a splash of rum or almond extract to the plum mixture.
- This recipe can also be adapted with other seasonal fruits, such as peaches or apricots.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other types of pastry?
Yes, tart dough or cookie dough can be used, but puff pastry provides a slightly crispy texture.

2. How can I enhance the flavor of the caramel?
You can add a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of salt to contrast the sweetness.

3. Can the tart be served cold?
Absolutely! It can also be enjoyed cold, and the flavors will intensify.

Remember, cooking is an art, and each recipe is an opportunity to express your creativity. This upside-down dessert is not only a delight for the taste buds but also a way to bring joy to the table. Enjoy!