Bacon and Spinach Tart

Bacon and Spinach Tart - A delicious recipe for unforgettable moments, perfect both warm and cold

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 35-40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 6

The bacon and spinach tart is a dish that combines the crispy texture of the dough with the savory filling of meat and vegetables. This recipe is perfect for a family lunch or a dinner with friends. Like many traditional recipes, the tart can be modified based on the ingredients you have on hand, making it very versatile.

A bit of history

The tart is a dish with a long history, originating in medieval kitchens. Over time, it has evolved and countless variations have developed, from sweet to savory. The combination of diverse ingredients makes the tart a beloved dish worldwide, and every cook has their own secret recipe.

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 140 g cold butter, diced
- 260 g flour
- 1 egg
- A pinch of salt
- 4 tablespoons of cold milk

For the filling:
- 200 g bacon (or alternatively, chicken breast, sausage, or any type of meat you prefer)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 4 cherry tomatoes, diced
- 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
- 1 small cup of cold water
- 1 teaspoon of flour
- 300 g frozen spinach (or fresh, if you have it)
- 2 slices of processed cheese
- A dash of Delikat (or salt, to taste)

Step-by-step instructions

Step 1: Preparing the dough

1. In a large bowl, add the flour and salt. Mix the dry ingredients well to combine.
2. Add the cold diced butter and, using your fingers, rub it into the flour until you achieve a texture similar to wet sand.
3. In another bowl, beat the egg with the cold milk. Add the egg mixture to the bowl with flour and butter, quickly mixing with a spatula or your hands until the ingredients combine.
4. Knead the dough for a few minutes until it becomes elastic and homogeneous. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
5. Form a ball from the dough, wrap it in cling film, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Preparing the filling

1. While the dough cools, heat a pan with a little oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté over medium heat until golden.
2. Cut the bacon into suitable cubes and add it to the pan, stirring frequently to brown evenly.
3. Once the bacon is browned, add the diced cherry tomatoes, tomato paste, and the cup of water. Mix well and let it simmer for a few minutes.
4. When the mixture starts to boil, sprinkle a teaspoon of flour and mix quickly to avoid lumps. Let the sauce cool.
5. In another pan, add the spinach and sauté over medium heat. Once it has thawed (or softened if fresh), add the minced garlic and a dash of Delikat. Mix well and let it cool.

Step 3: Assembling the tart

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Remove the dough from the refrigerator and roll it out on a floured surface until you achieve a sheet about 1.5-2 cm thick. Ensure the sheet is even.
3. Grease a tart pan with butter and flour, then place the dough in the pan, using a knife to trim the excess dough from the edges. Prick the dough with a fork to prevent puffing during baking.
4. Pre-bake the dough in the oven for about 10 minutes until it becomes lightly golden. This step is essential to avoid a soggy crust.
5. After the dough is pre-baked, add the filling in layers: start with the bacon mixture, followed by the spinach, and then the processed cheese broken into pieces.
6. Use the remaining dough to create a lattice over the filling. You can cut thin strips and arrange them in a crisscross pattern for a rustic and appetizing look.
7. Beat an egg and brush the lattice with it to achieve a golden and shiny crust.
8. Bake the tart in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until well browned.

Step 4: Serving and variations

1. Once out of the oven, let the tart cool slightly, but no more than 10 minutes, so you can enjoy its intense aroma.
2. The tart can be served warm or cold, alongside a fresh green salad or a garlic yogurt sauce.
3. You can experiment with various types of meat or vegetables. For example, you can replace the bacon with chicken or even mushrooms for a vegetarian option. You can also add other vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers.

Nutritional benefits

This tart contains protein from meat and cheese, as well as vitamins and minerals from spinach and tomatoes. Spinach is an excellent source of iron and antioxidants, while bacon adds a flavor boost. However, it is important to note that the tart is also quite high in calories due to the butter and cheese, so moderation is key.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of flour for the dough?
Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free flour, but you may need to adjust the liquid amounts.

2. How can I make the tart easier to digest?
You can reduce the amount of butter in the dough and use low-fat cheese.

3. What is the best way to store the tart?
The tart can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. It can be reheated in the oven to regain its crispy texture.

I wish you much success in preparing this delicious bacon and spinach tart! Every bite will bring a smile to your face and that of your loved ones!

 Ingredients: for the dough: 140 g butter, 260 g flour, 1 egg, a pinch of salt, 4 tablespoons of milk; for the filling: some ribs, a small onion, 3 cloves of garlic, 4 cherry tomatoes, 1 tablespoon of tomato paste, a cup of cold water, 1 teaspoon of flour, frozen spinach, 2 slices of melted cheese, a little delicatessen.