Masa para tartas is the Spanish term for pie crust dough. It is a versatile recipe that can be used for both sweet and savory pies and tarts. Making your own pie crust may seem daunting, but with this simple recipe, you can make the perfect crust every time.
Ingredients
To make masa para tartas, you will need the following ingredients: - 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour - 1 teaspoon of salt - 1 teaspoon of sugar - 1 cup of cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces - 1/4 to 1/2 cup of ice water
Instructions
Step 1: Mix the dry ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar until combined.
Step 2: Cut in the butter
Using a pastry cutter or your hands, cut the cold butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. The butter should be evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Step 3: Add the ice water
Gradually add the ice water to the flour and butter mixture, one tablespoon at a time, while mixing with a wooden spoon or spatula. Mix until the dough comes together and forms a ball.
Step 4: Chill the dough
Wrap the dough ball in plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out.
Step 5: Roll out the dough
Remove the dough from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes. Flour a clean work surface and roll out the dough to the desired thickness.
Step 6: Transfer the dough to a pie dish
Carefully transfer the rolled-out dough to a 9-inch pie dish. Trim the edges and crimp them with a fork or your fingers.
Step 7: Pre-bake the crust (optional)
If your recipe calls for a pre-baked crust, prick the bottom of the crust with a fork and bake it in a preheated 375°F oven for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Step 8: Use the crust in your recipe
Your masa para tartas is now ready to be used in your favorite pie or tart recipe!
Nutrition
One serving (1/8th of the recipe) of masa para tartas contains approximately: - Calories: 210 - Fat: 14g - Saturated Fat: 9g - Cholesterol: 37mg - Sodium: 292mg - Carbohydrates: 18g - Fiber: 1g - Sugar: 1g - Protein: 2g
Tips and Variations
- For a sweeter crust, add an additional tablespoon of sugar to the dry ingredients. - For a savory crust, omit the sugar from the recipe. - To make a gluten-free crust, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. - For a flakier crust, use cold butter and ice-cold water and handle the dough as little as possible. - You can also add herbs, spices, or grated cheese to the crust for added flavor. - If you don't have a pastry cutter, you can use two knives or your fingers to cut in the butter.
Conclusion
Making your own masa para tartas is a rewarding experience that will elevate your pie and tart game to the next level. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a flaky, buttery crust that will impress your family and friends. So roll up your sleeves and give this recipe a try!
