Melktert I

Melktert I Recipe from Zambia | Ingredients: flour, baking powder, butter, egg, salt, milk, sugar, corn starch

Region / culture: Zambia | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Melktert, also known as milk tart, is a traditional South African dessert that consists of a sweet pastry crust filled with a creamy milk-based custard. This delicious treat is a favorite among many South Africans and is often enjoyed at special occasions and gatherings.

History

The origins of melktert can be traced back to the Dutch settlers who arrived in South Africa in the 17th century. The recipe has evolved over the years, with various influences from different cultures contributing to its unique flavor and texture.

Ingredients

4 oz (113 g) of flour
2 tsp of baking powder
2 oz (57 g) of butter
2 egg yolks
a pinch of salt
1 pt (473 ml) of milk
8 oz (227 g) of sugar
2 tbsp of corn starch
3 egg whites
1 oz (28 g) of butter, cinnamon, and sugar

How to prepare

Rub the butter into the sifted flour, baking powder, and salt.
Add the egg yolks and enough milk to make a stiff dough.
Roll out the dough thinly and line one large or two small cake pans.
To make the filling, dissolve the corn starch in a little of the milk and boil the remaining milk together with the sugar.
Pour the milk and sugar mixture onto the corn starch mixture and cook for 3 minutes, stirring constantly.
Stir in the butter.
Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then fold in the stiffly beaten egg whites.
Pour the mixture into the lined cake pans, sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon, and bake in a 400°F (204°C) oven for about 10 minutes.

Variations

Add a splash of vanilla extract to the custard mixture for extra flavor.
Top the melktert with fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel sauce for a decadent twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to roll out the pastry dough thinly to ensure a crisp and flaky crust.

- Be sure to stir the custard mixture constantly while cooking to prevent lumps from forming.

- Allow the custard mixture to cool slightly before folding in the beaten egg whites to ensure a light and fluffy texture.

Serving Suggestions

Melktert is best served chilled with a dusting of cinnamon on top.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to preheat the oven to the correct temperature before baking the melktert.

- Use a pastry brush to lightly coat the pastry crust with egg wash before baking for a golden finish.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use margarine instead of butter in the pastry crust.

- Cornstarch can be substituted with flour for thickening the custard mixture.

Make Ahead Tips

Melktert can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Serve slices of melktert on decorative plates with a dollop of whipped cream on the side for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Melktert pairs well with a cup of strong coffee or a glass of sweet dessert wine.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover melktert in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in the microwave for a few seconds until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of melktert contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of melktert contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of melktert contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of melktert contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Melktert is a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin D.

Alergens

Melktert contains dairy (milk, butter, and eggs) and wheat (flour), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Melktert is a delicious dessert that is relatively high in carbohydrates and fats, but also provides essential nutrients such as calcium and vitamins A and D.

Summary

Melktert is a classic South African dessert that is sure to impress your family and friends. With its creamy custard filling and crisp pastry crust, this sweet treat is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy a slice with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful end to any meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Melktert. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small town in South Africa. My grandmother, who was an amazing cook, had invited me into the kitchen to help her prepare a special dessert for a family gathering.

As we gathered the ingredients and started mixing them together, I watched in awe as she effortlessly created a creamy, custard-like filling that would later be poured into a flaky pastry crust. The sweet smell of cinnamon and nutmeg filled the air, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished product.

I asked my grandmother where she had learned to make Melktert, and she told me that it was a traditional South African dessert that had been passed down through generations of our family. She explained that the recipe had originally come from her own grandmother, who had learned it from a neighbor many years ago.

As we worked together in the kitchen, my grandmother shared stories of her childhood and the many ways in which food had brought our family together over the years. She told me about the time she had first tasted Melktert as a young girl, and how it had instantly become one of her favorite desserts.

I listened intently as she explained the importance of following the recipe exactly, and how each ingredient had been carefully chosen to create the perfect balance of flavors. She showed me how to roll out the pastry dough and gently press it into the pie dish, before carefully pouring in the filling and sprinkling it with a generous amount of cinnamon.

As the Melktert baked in the oven, I could hardly contain my excitement. When it was finally ready, my grandmother cut me a slice and watched with a smile as I took my first bite. The creamy custard filling melted in my mouth, and the warm spices danced on my taste buds.

From that moment on, Melktert became a staple in our family gatherings. My grandmother would often make it for special occasions, and I would always be by her side in the kitchen, eager to learn more about the art of cooking.

As the years went by, I began to experiment with the recipe myself, adding my own twist with different spices and flavor combinations. I was amazed at how versatile Melktert could be, and how each variation brought a new and exciting taste sensation.

Now, as I pass this recipe down to my own children and grandchildren, I am reminded of the special bond that food can create between generations. The tradition of making Melktert has become a cherished part of our family history, connecting us to our roots and keeping alive the memories of those who came before us.

And so, as I stand in my kitchen today, preparing a fresh batch of Melktert for another family gathering, I am filled with gratitude for the gift of cooking that my grandmother has passed down to me. I know that with each bite of this delicious dessert, we are not only savoring the flavors of South Africa, but also honoring the legacy of our ancestors who brought us together through the love of food.