Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 cup (2 sticks) cold, unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
- 1/4 cup ice water
Special Equipment Needed:
- Pastry blender
- Rolling pin
- 9-inch tart pan
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and cocoa powder.
2. Add the butter cubes and use a pastry blender to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Slowly add the ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together.
4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it a few times until it forms a smooth ball.
5. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
6. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
7. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a 12-inch circle.
8. Place the dough into the tart pan and press it into the sides and bottom.
9. Trim off any excess dough.
10. Prick the bottom of the pastry with a fork.
11. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown.
12. Let cool before filling with desired filling.
Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Temperature: 375°F
Serving Size: 8-10
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 300
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 4g
Substitutions for Ingredients:
- For the all-purpose flour, you can substitute whole wheat flour.
- For the butter, you can substitute vegan margarine.
Variations:
- For a sweeter pastry, add 1/4 cup of sugar to the flour mixture.
- For a nutty flavor, add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the flour mixture.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the butter is cold when adding it to the flour mixture.
- If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of ice water at a time until it comes together.
- If the dough is too wet, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it is the right consistency.
Storage Instructions:
Store the pastry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheating Instructions:
The pastry can be reheated in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes.
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the tart with fresh fruit and a dollop of whipped cream.
- Sprinkle the tart with powdered sugar for a decorative touch.
Garnishes:
- Chocolate shavings
- Chopped nuts
- Whipped cream
Pairings:
- Vanilla ice cream
- Fresh berries
- Coffee
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Roasted vegetables
- Salad
- Roasted potatoes
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the pastry is too dry, add a tablespoon of ice water at a time until it comes together.
- If the pastry is too wet, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it is the right consistency.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure all ingredients are fresh and not expired.
- Keep the pastry refrigerated until ready to use.
Food History:
Chocolate shortcrust pastry has been around for centuries and is believed to have originated in France. It is a popular pastry for making tarts and pies.
Flavor Profiles:
This pastry has a rich, chocolate flavor with a hint of sweetness.
Serving Suggestions:
This pastry is perfect for making tarts, pies, and other desserts. It can also be used as a base for quiches and savory dishes.
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Taste: Rich, Chocolatey, Sweet, Flaky, Crumbly