Maroilles Cheese Tart

This tarte is prepared with a pâte levée, a yeasty dough characteristic of the region. Its main ingredient, the Maroilles cheese, has been produced for centuries in Thiérache, the vast region bordering Belgium, and takes its name from the village of Maroilles in the Nord department just adjacent to Aisne. Square, with a perfectly edible smooth pink skin,
Maroilles is a soft cow’s-milk cheese that imparts a strong flavor.

Serves 6

INGREDIENTS:

FOR THE DOUGH:

• 1 envelope dry yeast
• Pinch of sugar
• 1/4 cup warm milk
• 1 1/2 cups unbleached flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 eggs
• 4 tablespoons butter, softened

FOR THE FILLING:

• 1 Maroilles cheese
• 2 egg yolks
• 6 ounces crème fraiche
• 1/4 teaspoon fresh pepper

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
2. In a small cup, put the yeast and sprinkle it with a little sugar. Add warm milk and wait a few minutes until it becomes foamy.
3. In a bowl, mix the yeast mixture with flour and salt. Add the eggs and softened butter. Knead for 2 minutes until the dough becomes elastic and smooth. Cover and let it rise for 1 hour.
4. Punch the risen dough down, roll it out, and line a tart mold with it. Let it rise for another 30 minutes.
5. Scrape the skin of the Maroilles cheese without removing it. Cut the cheese into thin slices. Line the pie dough with the cheese slices.
6. In a food processor, blend the egg yolks and crème fraiche until smooth. Cover the cheese with this mixture.
7. Bake the tart in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.

SERVING:

Enjoy the delicious Maroilles Tart, with its creamy cheese filling and golden crust. Serve it warm as a delightful appetizer or as a main course accompanied by a fresh salad. The rich and savory flavors of the Maroilles cheese combined with the delicate texture of the tart dough make for a truly satisfying culinary experience. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• Appetizer: Cut the Maroilles Tart into bite-sized pieces and serve them as an appetizer at a party or gathering. The creamy and tangy flavors of the Maroilles cheese paired with the buttery tart crust will make for a delightful and sophisticated finger food option.
• Main Course: Serve larger portions of the Maroilles Tart as a main course for a light and flavorful meal. Accompany it with a fresh green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the tart. This can be a wonderful option for a brunch or a light lunch.
• Side Dish: Cut the Maroilles Tart into smaller slices and serve it as a side dish alongside roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or hearty soups. The tart’s creamy and robust flavors will complement a variety of main dishes and add an extra layer of indulgence to the meal.
• Picnic or Potluck: The Maroilles Tart can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, making it a convenient and delicious option for picnics or potluck gatherings. Slice it into individual portions and pack them in containers for a portable and savory treat.
• Wine Pairing: Maroilles cheese and the flavors of the tart pair exceptionally well with a variety of wines. Opt for a light to medium-bodied red wine such as Pinot Noir or Beaujolais, or a crisp and aromatic white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. These wine choices will enhance the flavors of the tart and create a harmonious pairing.

Whether enjoyed as an appetizer, a light lunch, or a delicious dinner, the Maroilles Tart will surely impress with its unique flavors and elegant presentation. So, embrace the essence of French cuisine and savor the decadence of Maroilles Tart, a culinary delight that will transport your taste buds to the heart of France.