Melktert

Melktert

Melktert, also known as Milk Tart, is a traditional South African dessert. It is a sweet pastry crust containing a creamy filling made from milk, flour, sugar and eggs. The dish is of Dutch origin and has been part of South African cuisine for centuries.

History

The history of Melktert dates back to the 17th century when the Dutch settlers arrived in South Africa. The recipe was likely adapted from a similar Dutch dessert, using ingredients that were readily available in the new colony. Over time, the dessert has become a staple in South African households and is often served at social gatherings and celebrations.

Ingredients

The main ingredients in Melktert are milk, sugar, eggs, and flour. Some variations of the recipe may also include butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. The crust is typically made from flour, butter, and sugar, although some recipes may use puff pastry or even a biscuit base.

Preparation

The preparation of Melktert involves several steps. First, the crust is prepared by combining the flour, butter, and sugar, and then pressing the mixture into a pie dish. The filling is made by heating the milk and sugar in a saucepan, then slowly adding the flour and eggs. The mixture is stirred continuously until it thickens, then poured into the crust and baked until set.

Serving

Melktert is typically served chilled and dusted with cinnamon. It can be enjoyed as a dessert or a tea time treat. In South Africa, it is often served on special occasions such as Easter and Christmas, but can also be found in many bakeries and supermarkets year-round.

Variations

There are many variations of Melktert. Some recipes use a biscuit base instead of a traditional pastry crust, while others add different flavors to the filling, such as almond or chocolate. There are also vegan and gluten-free versions of Melktert available.

See Also

• South African Cuisine
• Desserts
• Baking

References

• The Great South African Cookbook, by Toby Murphy
• Traditional South African Cooking, by Pat Barton

External Links

• South African Food - Melktert
• BBC Food - Melktert Recipe