Are you ready for a culinary journey to the vibrant shores of Guyana? Today, we're diving into the sweet, spicy, and utterly addictive world of Pine Tarts – a beloved Guyanese treat that's surprisingly easy to make at home. Forget complicated baking; this recipe is perfect for both beginner bakers and experienced cooks seeking a delicious and quick dessert. These little pastries are bursting with flavour, a delightful combination of sweet and savoury that will leave you wanting more. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this authentic Guyanese recipe! It's a fantastic addition to any homemade cooking repertoire, perfect for a quick dinner dessert or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- ¼ cup ice water
- ½ cup guava jelly or other preferred fruit jelly
- 1 cup grated coconut
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of ground cloves (optional, for extra warmth)
Instructions:
Step 1: Making the Pastry
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add the ice water, mixing until the dough just comes together. Don't overmix!
- Form the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Assembling and Baking the Tarts
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about ⅛ inch thickness.
- Use a 3-inch cookie cutter or a knife to cut out circles.
- Place the pastry circles in a muffin tin.
- In a separate bowl, combine the grated coconut, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves (if using).
- Spoon a teaspoon of the coconut mixture into the center of each pastry circle.
- Top each with a small spoonful of guava jelly.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Let the Pine Tarts cool slightly in the muffin tin before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for the Best Pine Tarts:
- Use cold ingredients: Cold butter is crucial for a flaky pastry.
- Don't overmix the dough: Overmixing will result in a tough pastry.
- Chill the dough: Chilling allows the gluten to relax, resulting in a more tender crust.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet tart, reduce the amount of brown sugar.
- Experiment with fillings: Feel free to experiment with different fruit jellies or jams. Pineapple or mango would be delicious alternatives.
Variations:
- Spicy Pine Tarts: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the coconut mixture for a spicy kick.
- Nutty Pine Tarts: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the coconut mixture for added texture and flavor.
Nutritional Information (per tart, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 150-200 Fat: 8-10g Carbohydrates: 20-25g Protein: 2-3g
These nutritional values are estimates and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
Enjoy your homemade Guyanese Pine Tarts! They're a perfect example of delicious and easy recipes that showcase the rich culinary heritage of Guyana. These quick dinner ideas are sure to become a family favourite, adding a touch of the exotic to your everyday healthy meals. They're truly amongst the best recipes you'll ever try!