This homemade tart dough recipe is a game-changer for anyone passionate about baking. Designed for creating two 22cm diameter tart discs, this dough combines the simplicity of ingredients with a touch of culinary magic, resulting in a versatile base perfect for various fillings. Whether you opt for the traditional richness of beef fat or the buttery goodness of butter, this dough promises ease of handling and a delightful texture that’s both crispy and tender.
Why You’ll Love This: The beauty of this tart dough lies in its flexibility and the sheer joy of working with it. It rolls out smoothly without the need for additional flour, making the process cleaner and more enjoyable. The technique of folding and rolling ensures a flaky, crispy crust that perfectly complements any filling. It’s a foolproof recipe that guarantees a professional-looking and tasting tart every time.
Perfect Occasion: This tart dough is perfect for both casual family dinners and special occasions. Use it to prepare a savory tart for a brunch gathering, a vegetable-packed option for a healthy lunch, or a sweet tart for a delightful dessert. Its versatility also makes it an excellent choice for holiday meals, potlucks, or as a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and neighbors.
Decoration Tips: For an extra beautiful tart, consider creative repulging techniques to crimp the edges for a decorative finish. Brushing the dough with an egg yolk-water mixture before baking gives it a golden sheen, while sprinkling with sesame seeds adds a subtle nuttiness and texture. Garnish the finished tart with fresh herbs, powdered sugar, or chocolate shavings, depending on the filling, to enhance its visual appeal.
Dough Ingredients:
- 350g ultra-fine flour
- 1/4 tsp fine salt
- 180ml hot water
- 45g melted beef fat or butter
Filling:
- 400g dry ricotta
- 1 onion, sautéed in olive oil with a pinch of salt
- 20 parsley leaves, chopped
- 150g cooked ham, chopped
- 50g Gouda or Edam cheese, grated
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Glazing:
- 1 egg yolk mixed with 4 tbsp water
- Sesame seeds for sprinkling
Instructions:
- Mix flour and salt, then incorporate melted fat and hot water. Knead on a surface for 7 minutes, cover, and rest for 30 minutes.
- Roll out to 2mm thickness, fold in half, and roll again to 2mm. For extra crispiness, brush with fat before folding.
- Cut discs, separate with plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.
- Mix filling ingredients.
- In an 18cm diameter greased tart pan, place one dough disc, add filling, cover with the second disc, crimp edges, and prick with a fork.
- Glaze with egg yolk mixture and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
- Bake at 180°C until the dough turns golden.
Enjoy the satisfaction of creating a beautiful, homemade tart that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to the craft, this tart dough recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire.
