The Classic Delight of Dalmatian Fig Tart (Dalmatinski Smokvenjak)

Let's explore a sweet staple from the Dalmatian coast, the heart of Croatia - Dalmatinski Smokvenjak, or what we fondly call the Dalmatian Fig Tart. This dessert has been rooted in its coastal origins, an endearing delicacy born from the region's abundant fig and almond trees. Now, it captivates taste buds internationally, spreading the joy of the rich, earthy flavors that define this Balkan gem.

The Dalmatian Fig Tart has surely made a delightful mark in the dessert scene, tantalizing with an inviting aroma, and wooing the palates with a unique flavor profile. Eaten either as a pick-me-up snack or as a grand dessert, this fig tart is a versatile dish that fits right into any meal of the day. Its recipe allows for a range of ingredients, offering a broad canvas to paint dietary preferences on.

Our version of Dalmatian Fig Tart starts with a signature crust, made with all-purpose flour and cold butter, lovingly bound with egg yolk, water, and a dash of vanilla. Topped with a filling of finely chopped dried figs that have melded beautifully with notes of brandy or rum, almonds, Selo Olive Oil, lemon zest, and cinnamon - this tart is pure indulgence. A light brush of olive oil on top, rounded off with a sprinkle of coarse sugar, gives the tart a lovely finish.

Common Queries about Dalmatian Fig Tart

Can you replace dried figs with fresh ones?

Most definitely! If you have fresh figs ready, they can be a fantastic substitute for dried figs in the recipe. However, adjust the moisture accordingly, since fresh figs carry their own juice.

Can there be a vegan alternative to the tart dough?

Certainly! To make a vegan version of the tart dough, replace the unsalted butter with vegan margarine or coconut oil, and swap the egg yolk for a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water).

Why is the tart dough crumbly?

If your tart dough is crumbly, it might be lacking enough moisture to bind it together. The dough needs to adhere to itself when pressed. If it's too crumbly, consider adding a bit more cold water to achieve the right consistency.

Some parts of the tart brown too fast in the oven. What to do?

If certain parts of your tart start to brown prematurely, use strips of aluminum foil to cover these sections and prevent them from burning or over-browning.

Our Dalmatian Fig Tart, made richer with Selo Olive Oil, is a hearty representation of its roots. Enjoy this sweet gem from the Croatian culinary treasure chest!

Dalmatian Fig Tart (Dalmatinski Smokvenjak)

Selo Olive Oil

Rated 5.0 stars by 1 users

Category

Dessert

Cuisine

Mediterranean

Servings

10

Prep Time

20 minutes

Cook Time

50 minutes

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Ingredients

For the Tart Dough:

• 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup of sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 cup of cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• 1 large egg yolk
• 2 tablespoons of cold water
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

For the Fig Filling:

• For the Fig Filling:
• 2 cups of dried figs, stems removed and finely chopped
• 1/4 cup of brandy or rum
• 1/2 cup of toasted almonds, finely chopped

• 1 tablespoon of Selo Croatian olive oil

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• 1 teaspoon of lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon of cinnamon

For the Topping:

• 2 tablespoons of Selo Croatian olive oil

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• 2 tablespoons of coarse sugar

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Directions

1. Make the Tart Dough: In a food processor, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg yolk, cold water, and vanilla extract and pulse until the dough comes together. Press the dough into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch tart pan.
2. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. Prepare the Fig Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped dried figs, brandy or rum, chopped almonds, olive oil, lemon zest, and cinnamon. Stir well to combine.
4. Assemble the Tart: Spread the fig filling evenly over the tart dough in the pan. Press down gently to compact the filling.
5. Bake the Tart: Bake the tart in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, until the crust is golden and the filling is set. If the edges of the tart start to brown too quickly, you can cover them with strips of aluminum foil.
6. Prepare the Topping: Near the end of the baking time, brush the top of the tart with the olive oil and sprinkle with the coarse sugar. Return the tart to the oven for another 5 minutes to let the sugar melt slightly.
7. Serve: Allow the tart to cool completely before slicing and serving. This tart is delicious served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Recipe Note

If you have fresh figs on hand, feel free to use them in place of the dried figs. You'll need about 3 cups of fresh figs, and you can skip the brandy or rum since the fresh figs will have plenty of moisture.

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