Milk Tart or “Melktert” is a traditional South African dish, originally created by the Dutch settlers in the “Cape” dating back to the 1600s. The tart consists of a sweet pastry crust containing a custard filling made from milk, flour, sugar and eggs. The ratio of milk to eggs is higher than the traditional Portuguese custard tart or the Chinese egg tart, resulting in a lighter texture and a stronger milk flavour.
“Melktert” is believed to have developed from the Dutch mattentaart, a cheesecake-like dessert.
Found at fetes, markets and in most local supermarkets, it is safe to say Melktert is a firm staple food all over South Africa.
Food 24 has compiled a wonderful selection of traditional and not so traditional takes on the beloved Milk Tart. Click here to view.
Image: By DimiTalen – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=18076464
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