HAZELNUT FRANGIPANE TART WITH APRICOTS AND SOFTLY WHIPPED CREME FRAICHE
Hazelnut Frangipane Tart with Apricots and Softly Whipped Creme Fraiche tastes best with apricots that are just ripe, sa they are easiest to peel when blanched.
Provided by Martha Stewart
Categories Food & Cooking Dessert & Treats Recipes Pie & Tarts Recipes
Yield Makes one 9-inch tart
Number Of Ingredients 14
Steps:
- Cut dough into a 6-inch round piece (reserve remaining dough for another use), and press into a 9-inch round tart pan with removable bottom, making dough about 1/4 inch thick. Patch with pieces of dough if necessary. Refrigerate for 10 minutes. Trim dough flush with rim, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line tart shell with parchment, and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake until edges are golden, about 20 minutes. Rotate tart shell, and remove parchment and weights. Cover edges with a strip of foil. Bake until bottom is crisp and lightly golden, 10 to 15 minutes more. Let cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Reduce the oven temperature to 325 degrees.
- Pulse 1/3 cup hazelnuts in a food processor until finely ground. Stir together ground hazelnuts, flour, and salt.
- Beat butter and granulated sugar until pale and creamy. Beat in egg. Add hazelnut mixture, and beat until just combined. (Frangipane can be refrigerated in an airtight container up to 1 week.)
- Spoon frangipane into cooled tart shell, and smooth with a spatula. Let stand for 10 minutes. Bake until set, about 15 minutes. Let cool.
- Prepare an ice-water bath. Bring a pan of water to a boil. Lightly score bottoms of apricots. Add apricots to boiling water, and blanch to loosen skins, about 1 minute. Using a slotted spoon, transfer to ice-water bath to stop the cooking, about 1 minute. Remove apricots, and gently peel. Cut in half, and remove pits.
- Just before serving, beat cream with confectioners' sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form; whisk in creme fraiche. Spread over frangipane. Arrange 7 apricot halves, cut side down, around edge. Cut remaining apricot half into thirds and arrange in center.
- Melt jam in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir in lemon juice, and set aside to cool for 5 or 10 minutes. Pour through a sieve; discard solids. Brush strained jam over apricots, and spoon remaining glaze over cream. Sprinkle remaining 2 tablespoons hazelnuts around apricots. Serve immediately.
APRICOTS AND CREME FRAICHE
Apricots are the golden globes of the fruit world make tart-sweet "cups" for dollops of tangy creme fraiche, creating a delightful union of flavors. Serve these as a snack or starter-anytime you want a bite (or two) of sunshine.
Provided by Martha Stewart
Categories Food & Cooking Appetizers
Number Of Ingredients 4
Steps:
- Fill each apricot half with a dollop of creme fraiche. Sprinkle with pepper and top with cilantro sprigs.
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Apricots and crème fraiche are a match made in heaven. The combination of the sweet and tangy flavor of the apricots and the rich creaminess of the crème fraiche is a delightful taste experience. This duo can be used in a variety of recipes ranging from sweet to savory. In this article, we will explore the different ways you can use apricots and crème fraiche to create mouthwatering dishes.
Sweet Recipes
Apricot and Crème Fraiche Tart
Apricot and crème fraiche tart is a classic dessert that is perfect for any occasion. The sweet and tangy flavor of the apricots paired with the rich creaminess of the crème fraiche creates a delectable filling for a flaky tart crust. This dessert is perfect for entertaining and is sure to impress your guests.
Apricot and Crème Fraiche Parfait
Apricot and crème fraiche parfait is a simple yet elegant dessert that can be whipped up in minutes. Layer slices of fresh apricots with crème fraiche and top with chopped nuts for a delicious treat.
Apricot and Crème Fraiche Smoothie
Apricot and crème fraiche smoothie is a healthy and tasty way to start your day. Blend fresh apricots with crème fraiche and yogurt for a creamy and satisfying breakfast or snack.
Savory Recipes
Apricot and Crème Fraiche Chicken
Apricot and crème fraiche chicken is a flavorful main dish that is easy to make. Sauté chicken breasts in butter and then add chopped apricots, crème fraiche, and thyme to create a creamy sauce that pairs perfectly with the tender chicken.
Apricot and Crème Fraiche Crostini
Apricot and crème fraiche crostini is a great appetizer that is both simple and delicious. Toast slices of bread and then top with crème fraiche, sliced apricots, and a drizzle of honey for a sweet and savory bite.
Apricot and Crème Fraiche Salad
Apricot and crème fraiche salad is a light yet satisfying dish that is perfect for summer. Toss sliced apricots with mixed greens, crème fraiche dressing, and toasted almonds for a refreshing and flavorful salad.
Conclusion
Apricots and crème fraiche are versatile ingredients that can be used in a variety of recipes. Whether you are making a sweet dessert or a savory main dish, the combination of these two flavors is sure to impress. So the next time you are looking for a new recipe to try, consider using apricots and crème fraiche for a delicious and unique taste experience.
Tips for Choosing Apricots
When making apricots and creme fraiche recipes, it is important to select the best quality apricots for the best flavor in your dish.
Look for Ripe Apricots
A ripe apricot should have a bright orange color with a slight blush of red. They should be firm but yield slightly to pressure when gently squeezed. Avoid apricots that are too soft or have brown spots or bruises.
The Importance of Scent
Another key factor when selecting apricots is their fragrance. The scent should be sweet and fragrant. If there is no scent or a sour smell, this could be an indication that the apricots are not ripe.
Seasonal Availability
Apricots are a seasonal fruit and are typically available from May through August. During this time, you will find the freshest and juiciest apricots at your local farmers' market or grocery store.
Choosing the Right Creme Fraiche
Creme fraiche is a key ingredient in many apricot recipes. This rich and creamy dairy product can be found in most grocery stores and specialty markets.
Check for Freshness
When choosing creme fraiche, it is important to check for freshness. Look for a seal or expiration date and select a product that has not passed its expiry date.
Sweet or Savory
Consider the recipe you will be making when selecting your creme fraiche. If your apricot recipe is sweet, choose a creme fraiche that is not too tangy. If you are making a savory dish, such as a dip or dressing, you may want a creme fraiche with a sharper taste.
Fat Content
Lastly, consider the fat content. Creme fraiche is a high-fat product, and different brands may have varying fat contents. Choose a product that matches your dietary needs and personal preferences.
Cutting and Preparing Apricots
When making apricot recipes, properly cutting and preparing the fruit is essential to the dish's success.
Cutting Techniques
The easiest way to cut an apricot is to slice it in half, remove the pit, and cut into wedges or cubes. However, if you want to showcase the fruit's beauty, consider slicing the apricot in half and removing the pit, leaving the fruit intact. This method allows you to fill the apricot with filling or serve it as a side.
Skin On or Off
Whether to peel the apricots or leave the skin on depends on your recipe. If you are making a puree, it is best to peel the fruit. However, if your apricot recipe is a dessert or a side dish, it is okay to leave the skin on the fruit.
Preparing the Apricots
Before adding the apricots to your recipe, ensure that they are cleaned and properly prepared. Cut each apricot in half, remove the pit, and slice or cube as needed. If you are using apricots in a sauce or jam, the fruit must be boiled or simmered until it breaks down and the mixture thickens.
The Perfect Apricot and Creme Fraiche Combinations
Now that you have the perfect apricots and creme fraiche, it's time to combine them to make delicious, mouth-watering dishes.
Apricot Parfaits
Layer sliced apricots, creme fraiche, and granola in a glass jar to create the perfect breakfast or dessert parfait.
Apricot Tarts
Fill a tart shell with sweetened creme fraiche, top with fresh apricots and bake until golden brown. This beautiful dessert is perfect for entertaining guests.
Grilled Apricots with Creme Fraiche
Cut apricots in half, remove the pits, and brush with olive oil. Grill each side for 2-3 minutes, then top with a dollop of creme fraiche for a quick and easy summer snack.
Apricot and Creme Fraiche Ice Cream
Whisk together apricot puree, creme fraiche, and sugar, then freeze in an ice cream maker for the perfect summer treat.
The Bottom Line
Apricots and creme fraiche are a match made in culinary heaven. When choosing the perfect ingredients for your recipe, consider the freshness and ripeness of the apricots, the type of creme fraiche you need, and how you'll prepare the fruit. With these tips in mind, you'll be able to make the perfect apricot and creme fraiche recipes every time.