These tartlets are a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, with a creamy ricotta filling infused with the delicate floral notes of rosewater and the nutty crunch of pistachios. The gluten-free flour and olive oil crust provides a sturdy base, while the honey adds a touch of sweetness to balance the tartness of the ricotta. These tarts are perfect for a light dessert or as a snack.
The origins of these Rosewater and Pistachio Ricotta Tarts can be traced back to the kitchens of the Ottoman Empire, where a similar dessert was served as a delicacy in the palaces of the sultans. Over the centuries, the recipe has undergone many iterations, but the core ingredients of ricotta, rosewater, and pistachios have remained constant. The use of gluten-free flour and olive oil in this modern adaptation is a nod to contemporary dietary preferences, while the addition of honey adds a touch of sweetness and complexity to the filling.
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 25 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/4 cup rosewater
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup chopped pistachios
1/4 cup gluten-free flour
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, rosewater, honey, pistachios, flour, cinnamon, and ginger.
Press the mixture into a 9-inch tart pan. Drizzle with olive oil.
Bake for 25 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
Why It Works
The combination of ricotta, rosewater, and pistachios creates a unique and flavorful filling that is both sweet and savory.
The gluten-free flour and olive oil crust provides a sturdy base for the tartlets, while also being a healthier alternative to traditional flour and butter.
The honey adds a touch of sweetness to the filling, balancing out the tartness of the ricotta and the floral notes of the rosewater.
The addition of cinnamon and ginger adds a touch of warmth and spice to the tartlets, making them perfect for a cold day.