Arab-inspired Tarte Tatin

Ingredients

While the French Tarte Tatin traditionally uses butter and white sugar, our Arab-inspired version incorporates saffron and cardamom for a unique twist. Additionally, we have adapted the cooking technique to infuse the flavors of Arab cuisine into this beloved dessert. We alse have the original recipe for Tarte Tatin, so you can check it out.

• 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled, cored, and halved 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled, cored, and halved
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 cup (60ml) water 1/4 cup (60ml) water
• 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
• Optional: crushed pistachios for garnish Optional: crushed pistachios for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): Approximately 300 kcal / 1255 KJ per serving
• Fat: 10g total, 2g saturated
• Carbohydrates: 50g total, 35g sugars
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. 2.
   In a 9-inch oven-safe skillet, combine the sugar, saffron threads, cardamom, and water. Cook over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and turns golden brown, swirling the pan occasionally.
3. 3.
   Carefully arrange the apple halves, cut side down, in the caramelized sugar mixture. Cook for 5 minutes, allowing the apples to soften slightly.
4. 4.
   Roll out the puff pastry sheet to fit the size of the skillet. Place the pastry over the apples, tucking in the edges.
5. 5.
   Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crispy.
6. 6.
   Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Place a serving plate over the skillet and carefully invert the Tarte Tatin onto the plate.
7. 7.
   Serve warm, garnished with crushed pistachios if desired.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Saffron — To enhance the flavor, soak the saffron threads in a tablespoon of warm water for 10 minutes before adding them to the caramel mixture.
• Cardamom — For a more intense cardamom flavor, grind whole cardamom pods in a spice grinder or mortar and pestle just before using.

Tips & Tricks

• To ensure a perfectly caramelized Tarte Tatin, use a skillet with a heavy bottom to distribute heat evenly.
• If the puff pastry starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
• Serve the Tarte Tatin warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat.

Serving advice

Serve the Arab-inspired Tarte Tatin warm as a delightful dessert. It pairs beautifully with a cup of aromatic Arabic coffee or a soothing cup of mint tea.

Presentation advice

To present the Tarte Tatin beautifully, place a slice on a dessert plate and drizzle some of the caramel sauce from the skillet over the top. Sprinkle crushed pistachios for an added touch of elegance.