Strawberry and Rhubarb Lattice Tart

Delight in the perfect combination of sweet strawberries and tangy rhubarb in this delectable Strawberry and Rhubarb Lattice Tart. With its beautiful lattice design and mouthwatering flavors, this dessert is sure to impress and satisfy anyone with a sweet tooth. The golden shortcrust pastry provides the perfect base for the succulent strawberries and rhubarb, complemented by the richness of strawberry jam and a touch of lemon juice. This delightful tart is a true celebration of summer’s bounty and a treat fit for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a delicious dessert, this Strawberry and Rhubarb Lattice Tart is a must-try!

INGREDIENTS:

• 500g block shortcrust pastry
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 2 tbsp semolina
• 4 tbsp cornflour
• Juice of ½ a lemon
• 200g strawberry jam
• 225g fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
• 150g rhubarb, sliced into 2cm pieces

PREPARATIONS:

1. Divide the pastry into two pieces, one 300g, and the other 200g.
2. Roll out the smaller piece on a lightly floured surface to the thickness of a 50p coin and a slightly larger diameter than the pie dish. Transfer to a baking sheet and cut into 10 strips, each about 25cm wide. Chill for 15 minutes.
3. Roll out the larger portion to the same thickness. Use it to line a loose-bottomed pie dish. Trim off the overhang to be flush with the rim of the dish. Brush all over with some of the beaten egg and sprinkle semolina evenly over the base. Chill for 15 minutes.
4. Mix cornflour and lemon juice in a medium bowl. Add jam and fruit, mixing well to coat. Spoon into the pastry-lined pie dish and level.
5. For the lattice design, lay 5 parallel strips of pastry horizontally on top of the filling, with about 2cm between them. Allow excess pastry to hang over the edge of the dish. Fold every other horizontal strip back on itself halfway and then place one long strip of pastry vertically across the center of the pie. Lay the folded strips back over the vertical strip so it is woven into the horizontal strips. Repeat until the pie is covered.
6. Press down the edges of the strips lightly and trim flush with the pastry of the pie dish. Crimp together with a fork. Brush the rim and lattice with more egg and chill for 15 minutes.

METHOD:

1. Preheat the oven to 220°C/200°C fan/gas mark 7 with a baking sheet inside.
2. Brush the pastry again with egg and bake for 15 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 180°C/160°C fan/gas mark 4 and bake for a final 30-35 minutes.
3. Serve the Strawberry and Rhubarb Lattice Tart with custard or cream.

YIELD:

• The Strawberry and Rhubarb Lattice Tart serves 8 people.

TIPS:

• For a decorative touch, sprinkle some icing sugar over the baked tart before serving.
• Ensure the pie dish is properly greased or lined with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
• If fresh rhubarb is not available, frozen rhubarb can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain it properly before using.

In conclusion, the Strawberry and Rhubarb Lattice Tart is a delightful and visually appealing dessert that brings together the sweet and juicy flavors of strawberries with the tanginess of rhubarb. This mouthwatering tart showcases the best of summer’s produce and provides a perfect ending to any meal. The combination of the golden shortcrust pastry, filled with succulent strawberries, rhubarb, and strawberry jam, creates a symphony of flavors that will leave everyone craving for more.

Creating the lattice design on the top of the tart adds an extra touch of elegance, making this dessert not only delicious but also visually stunning. The interwoven pastry strips create a beautiful pattern that will impress your guests and elevate any gathering to a special occasion.

The balance of sweetness from the strawberries and jam with the slightly tart flavor of the rhubarb, along with a hint of lemon juice, makes this tart a well-rounded treat for the taste buds. The juicy fruit filling is perfectly complemented by the golden and flaky shortcrust pastry, adding a delightful contrast of textures.

This Strawberry and Rhubarb Lattice Tart is surprisingly easy to make, thanks to the use of ready-made shortcrust pastry. It can be prepared ahead of time and is perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to special celebrations. Serve it warm with a dollop of custard or a scoop of creamy ice cream for an extra touch of indulgence.

Impress your loved ones with this seasonal dessert, and let the flavors of strawberries and rhubarb shine through in every bite. Share this delightful treat with family and friends, and witness their smiles of delight as they savor the irresistible taste of summer.

So, whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this Strawberry and Rhubarb Lattice Tart is a must-try. Enjoy the fruits of the season and treat yourself to this delightful and visually stunning dessert that celebrates the best of summer’s bounty.