Abolu Pirags - A Delightful Apple Tart Recipe

This delicious Abolu Pirags is a delightful blend of creamy and fruity flavors, perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dessert at home. The tart features a soft, light crust made from a mixture of semolina, flour, sugar, and kefir, giving it a unique texture and flavor. The filling is a rich blend of sour cream, cottage cheese, and eggs, enhanced with a hint of cinnamon and loads of grated apples. This dessert combines both tanginess and sweetness, making it a crowd-pleaser. While the preparation might seem a little extensive, the result is a show-stopping dessert that impresses both in taste and appearance. It's a versatile dish; cinnamon spices it up nicely, and you can adjust the sugar content to suit your taste. Although traditionally baked, the recipe allows for some flexibility in terms of ingredients. Perfect for holidays or any special occasion, it's a lovely way to end a meal. Enjoy this blissful taste of Latvia, each bite offering a comforting and satisfying sensation. Serve it warm or cold, and pair it with your favorite hot beverage.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 1 cup semolina
• 1 cup flour
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup kefir (250ml)
• 3 eggs
• 1 teaspoon baking powder

Filling Ingredients:

• 100g sour cream
• 200g cottage cheese
• 2 eggs
• Sugar to taste
• Cinnamon
• Approximately 1 kg apples, or more

Preparation Time

Total Time: Approximately 60 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. **Prepare the semolina:** Mix the semolina with kefir and leave it to swell. This step is important for achieving the right texture.
2. **Mix the batter:** Beat the eggs with sugar until fluffy. Add the swollen semolina mixture and gradually mix in the flour and baking powder.
3. **Prepare the baking dish:** Pour the batter into your preferred baking dish and let it sit while you prepare the filling.
4. **Prepare the apples:** Peel and grate the apples using a coarse grater. Ensure all apples are evenly grated for consistent texture and flavor.
5. **Mix the filling:** In a bowl, combine the eggs, cottage cheese, sour cream, and sugar. Mix well until the components are fully integrated.
6. **Assemble the tart:** Place the grated apples on top of the batter in the baking dish. Sprinkle with a generous amount of cinnamon.
7. **Add the cheese mixture:** Pour the cottage cheese mixture over the apples, ensuring the top is evenly covered.
8. **Baking the tart:** Preheat your oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Bake for approximately 40 minutes. Cooking time may vary depending on the proportion and depth of your baking dish.
9. **Check doneness:** The tart should be golden brown and cooked through. If in doubt, use a toothpick to check; it should come out clean.
10. **Serving:** Allow to cool slightly before cutting into slices.
11. **Consistency Tips:** For a perfectly baked tart, aim for a batter layer not exceeding 1 cm. A thinner base makes for easier serving.
12. **Portions:** A 24 cm diameter dish is ideal, though a 26-28cm dish may yield a quicker bake.
13. **Finish up:** Enjoy your Abolu Pirags warm or cold, perhaps topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
14. **Adjustments:** Don't hesitate to add more apples for a fuller flavor; the more, the merrier.
15. **Flavor Enhancements:** More cinnamon can be added for an extra aromatic boost, complementing the apple filling beautifully.
16. **Storage:** Keep leftover tart covered in the refrigerator for freshness.
17. **Reheating:** Gently reheat if needed, bringing back that freshly baked warmth.
18. **Pairing Suggestions:** A delightful accompaniment to coffee or tea.
19. **Final Note:** Enjoy the journey of preparing this scrumptious dessert, and savor every bite!

Tips

• For a richer flavor, you can use brown sugar instead of white.
• Substitute kefir with buttermilk if preferred.
• If you enjoy nuts, consider adding walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
• Protein: 8g
• Fats: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 35g

Variations

• Try adding a handful of raisins or dried cranberries for a different twist.
• For a gluten-free version, substitute regular flour with almond or coconut flour.
• Use honey or maple syrup in place of sugar for a different sweetness profile.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
• Pair with chai tea or a warm spiced drink for a perfect autumn treat.

Best Places to Enjoy Sweet Delights

• Coffee Collective - Known for its artisan coffees and sweet pairings. Location: Jægersborggade 10, Copenhagen, Denmark.
• Maison Plisson - A gourmet spot for tarts and pastries. Location: 93 Boulevard Beaumarchais, Paris, France.
• La Bicyclette - Offers traditional desserts with a modern twist. Location: 7th Ave, Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, USA.
• Fou de Fafa - Combines exquisite desserts with a cozy ambiance. Location: 3 rue des Three Faucons, Avignon, France.
• The Cupping Room - Presents desserts paired with expertly sourced coffees. Location: 299 Queen's Rd Central, Central, Hong Kong.
• Cafe Savoy - Delight in the classic Viennese coffee house experience. Location: Vítězná 124/5, Prague, Czech Republic.
• Barista Kazakhstan - Offers unique blends of coffee and sweets. Location: 7/1 Dostyk St, Astana, Kazakhstan.
• Kiwa Cafe - Known for its rich desserts and coffees. Location: 5-11-1 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo, Japan.
• The Grounds of Alexandria - A vibrant space with a rustic bakery offering. Location: 7a/2 Huntley St, Alexandria, Australia.
• Tartine Bakery - Famous for its quality pastries and tarts. Location: 600 Guerrero St, San Francisco, California, USA.