| Prep: 30 mins | Cook: 45 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 376 | 17g | 7g | 52g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 24g | 2g | 4g | 0.1g |
There’s something deeply comforting about the Abiu Tart; perhaps it’s the blend of sweet, tart flavors or the buttery pastry that sits just right in the heart. Composed of ripe abiu fruits mixed with a hint of lime and vanilla, nestled in a butter-laden pastry shell, it’s a dish that takes me back to my roots in the vast landscapes of Montana in a whimsical, unexpected way.
A New Frontier of Flavors
As a lover of innovation and exploration in the kitchen, the Abiu Tart is the perfect frontiersman in my culinary quest. It’s a dish that is similar to a classic apple or peach tart, yet so distinctively unique with its usage of the abiu fruit. This enchanting fruit, with its sweet, custard-like flesh, takes a simple dessert and transforms it into an exotic gastronomic adventure. Of course, my palate is led on this journey by the whisper of vanilla extract and the grunt of lime zest, two flavor profiles that always command my culinary respect.
I find the Abiu Tart pairs beautifully with a dollop of homemade vanilla bean whipped cream or a scoop of classic ice cream, a must for those hot summer days in Montana. Pair it with some fresh mint and you’ve got a dessert that looks as good as it tastes.
A Nod to Nutritional Value
While this Abiu Tart is undeniably a decadent treat, it carries a wealth of health benefits within its golden crust. The abiu fruit, besides being rich in taste, is a powerhouse of Vitamin C. These golden orbs are also a good source of dietary fibers and contain useful quantities of calcium and phosphorus. Butter, an ingredient that certainly needs no introduction, provides valuable fat-soluble vitamins such as A, E and K. To top it off, this tart’s sweetness comes from a sensible amount of sugar, making it a balanced indulgence rather than a dietary derailment. According to the Harvard School of Public Health, naturally occurring sugars in fruits are much less concerning than refined sugars.
So, whether you’re yearning for a trip down memory lane or seeking a new and exciting culinary journey, the rich, fruity embrace of the Abiu Tart is just the ticket.
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
- 1-2 tablespoons ice water
- 4 ripe abiu fruits
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon grated lime zest
- Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Method
Step One
Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Then, lightly grease a tart pan.
Step Two
In a large mixing bowl combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Add the cold, diced butter to the flour mixture. Using your fingertips or a pastry cutter, blend the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Slowly add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix just until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough. Press the dough evenly into the prepared tart pan, and let it rest in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes.
Step Three
While the tart shell is resting, prepare the abiu filling. Peel the abiu fruits and remove the seeds. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the abiu fruit pulp, brown sugar, freshly squeezed lime juice, vanilla extract, beaten egg, cornstarch, and lime zest. Mix well to combine.
Step Four
Remove the tart shell from the refrigerator and pour the abiu filling into the shell, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
Step Five
Allow the tart to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar. Cut into wedges and serve. Enjoy your Abiu Tart!
