European > Latvian > Latvian Tarts

Latvian Cheese and Dill Tart Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup cold water
- 4 eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Latvian cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
- Salt and pepper to taste

Special equipment needed:
- 9-inch tart pan with removable bottom
- Food processor

Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a food processor, pulse the flour, butter, and salt until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add the cold water and pulse until the dough comes together.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface and transfer it to the tart pan. Press the dough into the bottom and sides of the pan.
5. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, sour cream, cottage cheese, grated Latvian cheese, chopped dill, salt, and pepper.
6. Pour the mixture into the tart shell.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
8. Let the tart cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.


Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 35-40 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories: 327
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 13g
Sodium: 268mg

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of Latvian cheese, you can use any hard, salty cheese like feta or Parmesan.
- Instead of fresh dill, you can use dried dill.

Variations:
- Add chopped cooked bacon or ham to the filling for a meatier version.
- Use different herbs like parsley or chives instead of dill.
- Add sliced mushrooms or chopped onions to the filling for extra flavor.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the butter is cold when making the dough to ensure a flaky crust.
- Blind bake the crust for 10 minutes before adding the filling to prevent a soggy bottom.
- Let the tart cool for a few minutes before slicing to ensure clean slices.

Storage instructions:
Store leftover tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
Reheat the tart in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
Serve the tart on a platter with a sprinkle of fresh dill on top.

Garnishes:
Fresh dill sprigs

Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad of mixed greens and a vinaigrette dressing.
- Pair with a glass of white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

Suggested side dishes:
Mixed green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the crust is too crumbly, add a little more water to the dough.
- If the filling is too runny, bake the tart for a few more minutes until it sets.

Food safety advice:
Make sure to cook the tart until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown to ensure it is fully cooked.

Food history:
Cheese and dill are popular ingredients in Latvian cuisine, and this tart is a classic dish that is often served at celebrations and gatherings.

Flavor profiles:
Savory, cheesy, and herbaceous.

Serving suggestions:
Serve the tart as a main dish for lunch or dinner, or as an appetizer for a party or gathering.

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Region: Latvian

Taste: Savory, Tangy, Herby, Creamy, Cheesy