Mary Berry Goats Cheese And Shallot Tart With Walnut Pastry Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re looking to impress your guests or treat yourself to a delicious, savory dish, Mary Berry’s goats cheese and shallot tart with walnut pastry is the perfect choice!

This recipe combines rich, creamy goat cheese with the sweet, mellow flavor of caramelized shallots, all nestled in a buttery, nutty walnut pastry that adds a delightful crunch. It’s the ideal balance of flavors and textures, and with Mary Berry’s expert guidance, you’re guaranteed to create a showstopper that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, this tart will surely become a go-to favorite!

Mary Berry Goats Cheese And Shallot Tart With Walnut Pastry Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Mary Berry’s Goats Cheese and Shallot Tart with Walnut Pastry, you’ll need a carefully selected combination of ingredients that balance richness, sweetness, and depth of flavor. Here’s a breakdown of everything you’ll need:

For The Walnut Pastry

• 200g (7oz) plain flour – This forms the base of the pastry. It will give structure and crispness when baked.
• 100g (3½oz) cold unsalted butter – The key ingredient for creating a flaky and buttery pastry.
• 50g (1¾oz) walnuts – Finely chopped or ground. These provide a nutty flavor and a slightly textured element to the pastry.
• 1 large egg – Used to bind the dough together, giving it a smooth consistency.
• Pinch of salt – Enhances the overall flavor and balances out the richness.
• Cold water – Just enough to bring the dough together without making it too sticky.

For The Filling

• 2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing the shallots, giving them a gentle, aromatic flavor.
• 4 medium shallots – Thinly sliced. Shallots are milder than onions and bring a delicate sweetness when cooked down.
• 200g (7oz) soft goats’ cheese – The star of the tart, providing a creamy and tangy contrast to the sweet shallots.
• 150ml (5 fl oz) double cream – Adds richness and smoothness to the filling, creating a luxurious texture.
• 2 large eggs – Acts as a binder and helps the filling set during baking.
• Fresh thyme – A handful of fresh thyme leaves to sprinkle through the filling, bringing a herby depth to the tart.
• Salt and pepper – To season the filling and enhance all the flavors.

For Garnish

• A few extra walnut halves – Toasted lightly to enhance their flavor, which will add crunch and a nutty finish to the tart.

Equipment Needed

To create this delicious tart, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools that will ensure your pastry and filling are perfectly prepared.

1. Food Processor – A great tool to help quickly blend the walnut pastry dough. This will save time and ensure your pastry comes together smoothly.

2. Rolling Pin – To roll out the walnut pastry dough evenly and to the right thickness for your tart shell.

3. Tart Tin or Fluted Tart Pan – Ideally, a 23cm (9-inch) tart tin with a removable base. The fluted edges give the tart its elegant appearance, and the removable base allows for easy serving.

4. Frying Pan – For sautéing the shallots until they’re soft and caramelized, infusing them with flavor.

5. Mixing Bowls – You’ll need one for preparing the filling, and another for mixing the pastry ingredients if not using a food processor.

6. Pastry Brush – To brush a light egg wash on the pastry before baking, ensuring a golden, crisp finish.

7. Oven – Preheated to 180°C (350°F) for baking the tart to perfection.

8. Baking Beans or Rice (Optional) – If you choose to blind-bake the pastry, these are used to weigh the pastry down to prevent it from puffing up during baking.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Goats Cheese And Shallot Tart With Walnut Pastry

Now let’s dive into the method of creating this decadent and delicious tart. It’s a multi-step process, but each stage is straightforward and rewarding.

Step 1: Making The Walnut Pastry

1. Prepare the Pastry Dough: In a food processor, combine the plain flour, chopped walnuts, and salt. Pulse briefly until the walnuts are finely ground. Add the cold butter, cut into small cubes, and pulse again until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs.

2. Bring the Dough Together: Add the egg and a few tablespoons of cold water (start with one and add more if needed) and pulse until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough to maintain a flaky texture.

3. Chill the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface, form it into a disc, and wrap it in cling film. Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This rest period helps the pastry hold its shape during baking.

Step 2: Prepare The Filling

1. Caramelize the Shallots: Heat the olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced shallots and cook, stirring occasionally, until soft and golden, about 15 minutes. Set them aside to cool.

2. Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs and double cream together until smooth. Crumble in the soft goats’ cheese and add the cooked shallots. Stir in the fresh thyme leaves, and season generously with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Assemble The Tart

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 180°C (350°F) to ensure it’s at the right temperature when the tart is ready to bake.

2. Roll Out the Pastry: Take the chilled walnut pastry dough and roll it out on a floured surface to about 3mm thickness. Carefully line your tart tin with the dough, pressing it into the edges and trimming off any excess.

3. Blind Bake the Pastry: If you want a crisp base, blind bake the pastry. Line the pastry with parchment paper and add baking beans or rice. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, then remove the beans and paper and bake for an additional 5 minutes until golden.

4. Add the Filling: Pour the shallot and goats’ cheese mixture into the prepared tart shell, smoothing it out with a spatula.

5. Bake the Tart: Place the tart back into the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden and slightly bubbling.

Step 4: Garnish And Serve

Once the tart is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before removing it from the tart tin. Garnish with a few walnut halves and serve warm or at room temperature.

Expert Tips

• Pastry Tips: If you don’t have a food processor, you can make the pastry by hand. Simply rub the cold butter into the flour and walnuts using your fingertips until it resembles breadcrumbs, then mix in the egg and cold water.

• Cheese Variation: While goats’ cheese is the star of the tart, you can experiment with other soft cheeses like ricotta, feta, or cream cheese for a different flavor profile.

• Sauté the Shallots Slowly: Cooking the shallots low and slow will help bring out their natural sweetness, which perfectly complements the tangy goats’ cheese. Don’t rush this step for the best results.

• Freezing the Pastry: The walnut pastry can be made in advance and frozen. Roll it out, place it in your tart tin, wrap it well in cling film, and freeze for up to a month. When ready to use, simply bake from frozen.

• Serving Suggestion: Pair this tart with a simple side salad of mixed greens, dressed with a tangy vinaigrette, to cut through the richness of the cheese and pastry.

Mary Berry’s Goats Cheese and Shallot Tart with Walnut Pastry is a sublime combination of rich, creamy cheese, sweet shallots, and a nutty, flaky pastry that’s both elegant and comforting. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, enjoying a cozy meal at home, or looking for a showstopper to serve at a special occasion, this tart will certainly impress. With its harmonious flavors and beautiful presentation, it encapsulates everything we love about Mary Berry’s cooking: simple ingredients transformed into something truly extraordinary.

With a few expert tips for success and some patience in the kitchen, you’ll create a tart that’s sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Happy baking!

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Goats Cheese And Shallot Tart With Walnut Pastry

Mary Berry’s Goats Cheese and Shallot Tart with Walnut Pastry is already a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors, with a rich pastry base that adds a satisfying crunch. However, if you want to get creative and give this dish your own personal twist, there are numerous variations to explore that can suit different tastes, dietary preferences, or available ingredients.

1. Vegetarian Twist with Caramelized Vegetables: For those who prefer a meatless option, you can swap out some of the shallots for other caramelized vegetables, like bell peppers, zucchini, or roasted tomatoes. These vegetables will bring out sweetness and a deeper flavor profile that pairs beautifully with the tang of the goat’s cheese.

2. Adding Fresh Herbs: While the original recipe relies on the richness of the goats cheese and shallots, adding fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or even sage to the filling can elevate the flavor. Fresh thyme, in particular, complements the earthy flavor of the goat’s cheese, while rosemary adds a piney fragrance that goes wonderfully with walnuts.

3. Swap the Cheese: If you’re not a fan of goat’s cheese, there are many other cheeses you can experiment with. Creamy brie, sharp blue cheese, or a mild ricotta can replace the goat’s cheese while still keeping that wonderful creamy texture. A combination of cheese types can also work well, so feel free to mix and match for a personalized flavor.

4. Add Nuts for Extra Crunch: While the original recipe calls for walnut pastry, you can add extra texture to the filling itself. Adding toasted pine nuts, hazelnuts, or pecans to the filling will not only enhance the flavor but provide an added crunch that contrasts nicely with the soft, creamy goats cheese.

5. Spicy Variation: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a dash of red chili flakes, chili oil, or even some thinly sliced fresh chilies to the shallot and goats cheese filling. The slight spiciness will create an intriguing balance with the richness of the cheese and the sweetness of the shallots.

6. Caramelized Balsamic Vinegar Glaze: Drizzling a balsamic glaze over the finished tart before serving will bring a delightful tangy-sweet contrast. Balsamic vinegar’s deep flavor pairs well with both goats cheese and shallots, offering a delightful burst of acidity that cuts through the richness of the pastry.

These variations allow you to tailor Mary Berry’s Goats Cheese and Shallot Tart to your own tastes, and with a little experimentation, you may discover a new favorite version.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Mary Berry’s Goats Cheese and Shallot Tart with Walnut Pastry is often one of those dishes that’s even better the next day. However, like any delicate pastry-based dish, proper storage is key to preserving both its texture and flavor. Here are the best practices for storing leftovers:

1. Refrigeration: Store any leftover tart in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap. The tart should be refrigerated within two hours of serving to maintain freshness. Keeping the tart in a cool environment will prevent any bacteria growth and keep the dish safe to eat for up to 2-3 days.

2. Avoiding Soggy Pastry: One of the biggest challenges with storing leftovers is maintaining the crispiness of the walnut pastry. To avoid soggy pastry, it’s best to let the tart cool to room temperature before storing it in the fridge. If you’re reheating, placing the tart in a preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes at 350°F (175°C) can restore some of the crispiness of the pastry.

3. Freezing for Longer Storage: If you’d like to extend the life of your tart, freezing is an option. Wrap the tart tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. You can freeze the tart for up to 1-2 months. When ready to eat, defrost in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven as mentioned above. Freezing may slightly alter the texture of the pastry, but the flavor will remain intact.

4. Reheating Tips: When reheating leftover tart, it’s best to use an oven rather than a microwave. Microwaving can result in a soggy base, while an oven will restore some of the crispness. If you need to use a microwave, try placing a paper towel underneath the tart to absorb moisture and preserve the pastry.

By following these best practices, you can make sure your leftover Goats Cheese and Shallot Tart with Walnut Pastry remains as delightful as when it was first made.

What Goes Well With Goats Cheese And Shallot Tart With Walnut Pastry

Mary Berry’s Goats Cheese and Shallot Tart with Walnut Pastry is a sophisticated dish that pairs beautifully with many side dishes, beverages, and even desserts. When serving this tart, consider the following complementary options:

1. Fresh Green Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad provides a perfect contrast to the richness of the tart. Consider a simple green salad with mixed greens like arugula, spinach, or baby kale, dressed with a light vinaigrette. A few slices of fresh pear, apples, or even pomegranate seeds can bring in a touch of sweetness that contrasts nicely with the savory tart.

2. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted root vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, or beetroot are an excellent side to accompany the tart. Their natural sweetness complements the tangy goat’s cheese, while their slightly caramelized flavor balances the richness of the pastry.

3. Fruit Compote: A small serving of fruit compote, especially something like fig, cherry, or raspberry compote, would offer a tangy-sweet contrast that enhances the tart. The sweetness of the fruit works wonders against the savory flavor of the shallots and the creaminess of the goat’s cheese.

4. Wine Pairing: A well-paired wine can elevate your entire meal. For this dish, a crisp, acidic white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay is an ideal choice. If you prefer red wine, go for something light and fruity like Pinot Noir. The acidity of the white wines will cut through the richness of the cheese and pastry, while the fruitiness of the red wine complements the dish’s savory components.

5. Soup to Start: For a more substantial meal, pair your tart with a light soup to start. A chilled cucumber or tomato soup would pair beautifully with the richness of the tart, offering refreshing acidity to balance out the richness of the goats cheese.

6. Chutney or Pickles: A tangy chutney or pickles can add a burst of flavor to the dish, helping to balance out the richness. Choose a mild mango chutney, balsamic onion chutney, or even a tangy pickle like cornichons for a flavorful contrast.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Goats Cheese and Shallot Tart with Walnut Pastry is a versatile and delicious dish that is perfect for various occasions. From casual brunches to more formal dinner parties, this tart offers a balance of flavors and textures that are both rich and satisfying.

Whether you opt to make easy recipe variations, practice proper storage, or pair it with complementary sides, there are endless ways to enjoy and enhance this dish. The tart’s warm, savory flavor, coupled with the buttery, nutty pastry, makes it a true showstopper on any table. So, next time you make this tart, try some of these ideas to elevate your culinary experience and enjoy every bite!.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Needed To Make Mary Berry’s Goats Cheese And Shallot Tart With Walnut Pastry?

To make Mary Berry’s goats cheese and shallot tart with walnut pastry, you will need: goats cheese, shallots, butter, plain flour, ground walnuts, egg yolk, cold water, and seasoning like salt and pepper.

Can I Substitute The Goats Cheese In Mary Berry’s Tart Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute goats cheese with other types of cheese such as feta or ricotta if you prefer, though the flavor and texture will vary slightly.

How Do I Make The Walnut Pastry For This Tart?

To make the walnut pastry, blend ground walnuts with plain flour in a food processor. Add cold butter, pulse until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs, then add an egg yolk and water to bring the dough together. Chill the dough before rolling it out.

Can I Make The Walnut Pastry Ahead Of Time?

Yes, the walnut pastry can be made ahead of time. You can store it in the fridge for up to 2 days or freeze it for longer storage. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before rolling it out.

What Type Of Shallots Work Best For This Tart Recipe?

For this tart, red shallots or regular small shallots are recommended, as they have a mild sweetness that complements the tanginess of the goats cheese. You can also use spring onions if you prefer a milder flavor.

How Do I Prepare The Shallots For The Tart?

To prepare the shallots, peel them and slice them thinly. Then, cook them in butter over a low heat until they are soft and golden brown. This process caramelizes the shallots and enhances their sweetness.

Can I Make The Tart Vegetarian?

Yes, the tart is naturally vegetarian as it doesn’t contain any meat. Just ensure that all your ingredients, like the cheese, are vegetarian-friendly.

How Do I Assemble The Goats Cheese And Shallot Tart?

After rolling out the chilled walnut pastry, line a tart tin with it and blind bake it for about 10 minutes. Once the pastry is slightly golden, layer the caramelized shallots in the base, then top with crumbled goats cheese. Bake the tart in the oven until golden and set.

How Long Should I Bake Mary Berry’s Goats Cheese And Shallot Tart?

Bake the assembled tart for around 25 to 30 minutes at 180°C (350°F), or until the filling is set and the pastry is golden brown. Keep an eye on it to prevent overbaking.

Can I Add Any Other Ingredients To The Goats Cheese And Shallot Tart?

Yes, you can personalize the tart by adding extras like fresh herbs (such as thyme or rosemary), roasted garlic, or even a handful of spinach for added flavor and texture.