Nigel Slater’s Quince Tart is a stunning dessert that pairs the fragrant, floral flavor of quince with a buttery, flaky tart crust. This elegant dish is perfect for special occasions or as a show-stopping centerpiece for a dinner party. With its golden caramel glaze and tender fruit filling, this tart is as delightful to look at as it is to eat.

What is Nigel Slater Quince Tart?

Nigel Slater’s Quince Tart is a dessert featuring slices of poached quince nestled in a rich, buttery tart crust, often finished with a caramel glaze or syrup. The natural sweetness of the quince combines beautifully with the crisp pastry, creating a harmonious balance of flavors and textures.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

Unique Flavor: The floral and slightly tart flavor of quince makes this dessert stand out.
Elegant Presentation: A golden, glossy tart that impresses with its beauty.
Seasonal Delight: Quince is a perfect ingredient for autumn and winter desserts.
Versatile Dish: Serve it warm with cream or cold as a refreshing treat.
Aromatic Experience: The quince infuses the tart with a rich, fruity aroma.

Ingredients Needed for Nigel Slater Quince Tart

For the Pastry:

Plain flour: 200g (1½ cups)
Unsalted butter: 100g, chilled and diced
Icing sugar: 50g
Egg yolk: 1
Cold water: 2 tablespoons

For the Filling:

Quince: 2 large, peeled, cored, and sliced
Caster sugar: 150g
Water: 500ml, for poaching
Vanilla pod: 1, split and scraped
Butter: 2 tablespoons, for caramel glaze

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Tart tin (23cm/9-inch)
Saucepan
Mixing bowl
Rolling pin
Sharp knife and peeler
Pastry brush

Instructions to Make Nigel Slater Quince Tart

Prepare the Pastry:

Make the dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, butter, and icing sugar. Rub the butter into the flour with your fingertips until it resembles breadcrumbs.
Add the egg yolk: Mix in the egg yolk and cold water, bringing the dough together. Wrap in cling film and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Roll and fit the pastry: Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface. Fit it into the tart tin, trimming the edges. Chill in the fridge for 15 minutes.

Poach the Quince:

Prepare the syrup: In a saucepan, combine water, caster sugar, and the vanilla pod. Bring to a simmer.
Cook the quince: Add the sliced quince to the syrup and simmer gently for 20-25 minutes until tender. Remove from heat and let cool in the syrup.

Assemble the Tart:

Preheat the oven: Heat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
Fill the tart shell: Drain the quince slices and arrange them attractively in the tart shell.
Bake the tart: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and crisp.

Make the Glaze:

Prepare the caramel: In a small pan, melt the butter and add a few spoonfuls of the poaching syrup. Cook until it thickens into a glaze.
Glaze the tart: Brush the caramel glaze over the quince slices for a glossy finish.

What to Serve With Nigel Slater Quince Tart

Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened cream complements the tart beautifully.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing for warm slices.
Crème Fraîche: Adds a tangy contrast to the sweetness.
Espresso: The bitterness of coffee enhances the flavors of the tart.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Quince Tart

Choose ripe quince: Select fragrant, firm quince for the best flavor and texture.
Roll pastry evenly: Ensure the crust is of uniform thickness to bake evenly.
Simmer gently: Poach the quince slowly to infuse it with the vanilla flavor.
Chill the dough: Refrigerating the pastry helps prevent shrinking during baking.
Glaze generously: The caramel glaze adds both shine and flavor.

What are the Variations of Nigel Slater Quince Tart?

Add apples or pears: Combine quince with apples or pears for a mixed fruit tart.
Use almond cream: Spread a layer of frangipane under the quince for added richness.
Make it spiced: Add cinnamon or star anise to the poaching syrup for warm, spicy notes.
Top with nuts: Sprinkle chopped pistachios or almonds for a crunchy garnish.

How Do I Store Nigel Slater Quince Tart?

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

How Do I Reheat Nigel Slater Quince Tart?

In the oven: Warm at 160°C (320°F) for 10-15 minutes.
In the microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 30 seconds.

How Can I Make Nigel Slater Quince Tart Healthier?

Use whole wheat flour: Swap plain flour with whole wheat for added fiber.
Reduce sugar: Lower the sugar in the poaching syrup and glaze.
Skip the glaze: Omit the caramel glaze to reduce calories.
Add nuts: Include finely chopped nuts in the crust for extra nutrients.

Nutrition Value (per serving):

Calories: 320 kcal
Protein: 5g
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 4g

Final Words

Nigel Slater’s Quince Tart is a stunning dessert that celebrates the unique flavor and fragrance of quince. With its buttery crust and caramelized fruit, it’s a dish that’s as impressive as it is delicious. Serve it with your favorite accompaniments and enjoy this beautiful, seasonal treat!

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