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Combining the tropical sweetness of mangoes with a hint of heat from chili, the chili mango tart is a delightful treat that balances sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors. This vibrant dessert is perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a unique flavor experience. In this guide, you’ll learn how to make a show-stopping chili mango tart, along with tips and serving suggestions.
1. Ingredients for Chili Mango Tart
To make this tantalizing tart, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- For the Tart Crust:
- All-purpose flour
- Unsalted butter (cold)
- Granulated sugar
- Salt
- Ice water
- For the Mango Filling:
- Ripe mangoes (pureed)
- Sugar (adjust to taste based on mango sweetness)
- Lime juice (for acidity and balance)
- Cornstarch (for thickening)
- Chili powder or finely chopped chili (adjust spice level to taste)
- Egg yolks (for a custard-like texture)
- For Garnishing:
- Fresh mango slices
- Chili flakes
- Mint leaves
- Powdered sugar (optional)
2. Making the Tart Crust
a. Preparing the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
- Cut cold unsalted butter into small cubes and work it into the dry ingredients using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough to maintain a tender crust.
- Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
b. Rolling and Baking the Crust
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface and transfer it to a tart pan, pressing it into the edges and trimming the excess.
- Prick the bottom with a fork, line it with parchment paper, and fill with pie weights or dried beans.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the edges are golden. Remove the weights and bake for another 5-7 minutes until the crust is fully cooked. Allow it to cool.
3. Preparing the Chili Mango Filling
a. Making the Mango Purée
Peel and chop ripe mangoes, then blend them into a smooth purée using a blender or food processor. Strain the purée if you prefer a silkier texture.
b. Cooking the Mango Mixture
- In a saucepan, combine mango purée, sugar, lime juice, and chili powder (or chopped chili). Adjust the chili amount to achieve your preferred level of heat.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously, until the mixture begins to thicken slightly.
c. Adding Egg Yolks and Thickening
- In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks.
- Temper the egg yolks by slowly adding a small amount of the hot mango mixture while whisking constantly.
- Gradually add the tempered yolk mixture back into the saucepan and continue to cook, stirring, until the filling thickens to a custard-like consistency.
- Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
4. Assembling the Chili Mango Tart
- Pour the cooled chili mango filling into the pre-baked tart crust and spread it evenly.
- Smooth the top with a spatula and let it set in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours or until firm.
5. Garnishing and Presentation
a. Fresh Mango Slices
Arrange thin slices of fresh mango on top of the tart in an overlapping pattern for a beautiful presentation.
b. Adding Heat and Contrast
Sprinkle a few chili flakes for extra heat and garnish with mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
c. Dusting with Powdered Sugar
For a touch of elegance, lightly dust the edges with powdered sugar, but keep it minimal to preserve the tart’s bold flavors.
6. Tips for a Perfect Chili Mango Tart
- Choose Ripe Mangoes:
The sweetness and flavor of the tart depend on ripe, juicy mangoes. Avoid unripe or fibrous mangoes for the best texture and taste. - Balancing Sweet and Spicy:
Adjust the amount of chili to suit your taste. Start with a small amount and add more gradually. Lime juice helps balance the sweetness and brings out the tartness. - Achieving a Smooth Filling:
Blend the mango purée thoroughly and strain it if necessary for a smooth, luxurious texture. - Chill Time:
Allowing the tart to chill properly ensures that the filling sets firmly and cuts cleanly.
7. Serving Suggestions
a. Chilled and Refreshing
Serve the tart cold for a refreshing dessert that’s perfect for warm weather.
b. Paired with Whipped Cream
A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream balances the heat and adds a creamy contrast.
c. Complementary Beverages
Pair this tart with a glass of sparkling water, citrusy cocktails, or iced tea for a delightful combination.
Conclusion
The chili mango tart offers an irresistible blend of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors in one bite. This dessert not only captures the vibrant essence of tropical mangoes but also brings an unexpected twist togelup with a hint of chili heat. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or enjoying it solo, this tart is sure to impress and delight with every bite.