Bolognese Tart

Bolognese tart is a delicacy that combines the crunchy texture of the dough with a rich and flavorful filling, bringing together simple ingredients to create an extraordinary dish. This meat pie recipe is perfect for a family dinner or to impress guests on a special occasion. I invite you to discover how to prepare it step by step, ensuring a perfect result every time.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8 servings

Necessary ingredients:

For the dough:
- 250 g flour
- 150 g butter (cold, cut into cubes)
- 1 egg
- 3 tablespoons cold water
- A pinch of salt

For the filling:
- 400 g minced meat (mix of pork and beef)
- 1 large onion
- 100 g carrots (about 1 medium carrot)
- 150 g leek (one large stalk)
- 350 ml tomato juice
- 2 sprigs of fresh parsley
- 1 sprig of fresh thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 100 ml milk
- 100 g sheep cheese
- 50 g grated cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A pinch of nutmeg

Preparing the tomato juice:

1. Start by preparing the flavored tomato juice. Take a bowl and add the tomato juice. Finely chop the parsley, thyme, and oregano, then add them to the juice.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Use an immersion blender to combine the ingredients until you achieve a smooth consistency. This step will add a fresh and vibrant flavor to the filling.

Preparing the filling:

3. Finely chop the onion, carrots, and leek, each into thin rounds. These vegetables will add not only flavor but also a pleasant texture to the tart.
4. In a deep skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil. Add the minced meat and fry for 4 minutes, stirring frequently to brown evenly. Add the onion and carrots, continuing to sauté the mixture for 2-3 minutes.
5. Incorporate the tomato juice and chopped leek. Allow the mixture to simmer over medium heat for 5 minutes, then season with salt and pepper. Turn off the heat and let the filling cool.

Preparing the dough:

6. In a large bowl, combine the flour with a pinch of salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and, using your fingers, rub until you achieve a sandy mixture.
7. Add the egg and cold water. Mix until a smooth dough forms. Do not knead too much to avoid making it elastic. Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Assembling the tart:

8. Preheat the oven to 200°C. Grease a removable bottom tart pan (26 cm) with butter and dust it with flour or line it with baking paper.
9. On a floured work surface, roll out the dough with a rolling pin until you obtain a thin sheet. Transfer the sheet to the prepared pan, ensuring it evenly covers the sides. Prick the dough in several places with a fork to prevent it from puffing up during baking.
10. Beat the other eggs with a pinch of salt and nutmeg, then add the milk and mix well.
11. In a bowl, mash the sheep cheese with a fork. Then add it to the meat mixture in the skillet and mix all the ingredients together.

Baking and serving:

12. Pour the meat mixture into the prepared tart pan. Cover with the egg and milk mixture, then sprinkle the grated cheese on top.
13. Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, until the dough is golden and the filling is fully cooked.

Serving suggestions:

Bolognese tart is delicious served warm, alongside a fresh green salad with lemon dressing or a tomato salad. It can also be enjoyed at room temperature, making it ideal for a picnic or festive meal.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of meat?
Of course! You can experiment with chicken or turkey meat, or even a vegetarian option using mushrooms or vegetables.

2. How can I make this tart lighter?
You can replace the butter in the dough with olive oil or margarine for a lighter version. You can also use low-fat cheese for the filling.

3. What are the serving options?
The tart pairs wonderfully with a glass of white wine or a blonde beer. Additionally, a cup of hot soup can make an excellent accompaniment.

Nutritional benefits:

This tart is rich in protein due to the meat and cheese, providing a hearty and filling meal. The vegetables add essential fiber and vitamins, while the use of fresh herbs enhances not only the flavor but also the antioxidant content.

Details about the ingredients:

- Flour: It is the base of the dough, providing structure and texture. You can use whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
- Minced meat: The mix of pork and beef gives a rich flavor, but for a healthier option, you can choose chicken or turkey.
- Tomato juice: Adds moisture and an intense flavor to the filling. Choose natural or homemade tomato juice for the best results.
- Sheep cheese: This adds a distinctive flavor and creaminess to the filling. Other types of cheese can be used, but sheep cheese brings an extra touch of flavor.

Personalized variation:

To give a twist to the tarts, you can add chopped green or black olives, or even red bell peppers for an extra splash of color and flavor. Also, try using different combinations of herbs to change the flavor profile of the filling.

Bolognese tart is more than just a recipe; it is a culinary experience that brings people together. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, this tart will surely delight you. Enjoy!