recipe: strawberry rhubarb tarts

I will be the first to admit that I have not made many pies or tarts in my life. In fact, I have only ever used this one pie recipe, and that it because it does not call for shortening. Shortening is just something that I have never bought or thought about buying. I know that this recipe works and it tastes amazing, hence why I keep reusing it.

That said, you can either follow it or you may use your own favourite pie/tart recipe! Or, you can buy pre-packaged shells. As long as you end up with tarts, you can move onto the next step. The filling!

I don’t know if there is a better pairing with rhubarb than strawberries. Together, they are like peanut butter and jelly. One is tart, one is sweet, both are red and delicious. This is the most fitting dessert for Canada or Independence Day. Enjoy, friends.

Strawberry Rhubarb Tarts

Makes 12

Ingredients:

For the crust:
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1/3 cup coconut oil, room temperature
1/3 cup butter or margarine, cold
1/2 cup cold water (approximately)

For the filling:
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Dash of salt
2 cups rhubarb, diced
2 cups strawberries, diced
2 tbsp butter or margarine

Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. For the crust- combine flour and salt in a medium bowl. Add the coconut oil and butter or margarine. Mix well. Then add water. The dough should form a crumbly ball. (Add flour or water accordingly.)

2. Transfer dough to floured surface. Form it into a flat, round patty with a rolling pin. Using a large mug or anything that will make a circular shape, cut 12 circles. Place each one in a non-stick muffin pan, pushing down the dough as you do so. Trim away any excess dough.

3. For the filling- Dice the rhubarb and strawberries and cook in water until softened. Drain the water. Combine flour, sugar, and salt in a bowl. Add the fruit and mix well.

4. Fill each tart with the filling. Dot with butter or margarine. Bake in oven for approximately 30 minutes or until tarts are golden brown. Sprinkle with sugar, and serve warm with either whipped cream, ice cream, or just by themselves!