Martha Rose Shulmans Pear Ginger Tart Food

PEAR GINGER TART

Steps:

• Split the vanilla bean in half and scrape out the seeds with the tip of a paring knife. Place the water and the 1/2 cup (100 grams) of sugar in a saucepan, add the vanilla bean and seeds and bring to a boil over medium heat. When the syrup comes to a boil turn the heat to low, add the pears, and poach on medium heat for 5 minutes, or until the pears soften slightly. Do not over-cook. Set a strainer over a bowl and carefully transfer the pears to the strainer. Refrigerate and let drip overnight. Set aside the syrup for another purpose (it's great with yogurt or ice cream).
• The next day prebake the pastry [ed: please link], then turn the oven to 350 degrees. Combine the cornstarch and 2 tablespoons (30 grams) sugar together in a mixing bowl. Whisk in the milk, egg yolks and vanilla extract.
• Toss the poached pears with the diced candied ginger and arrange evenly over the bottom of the prebaked tart shell. Pour in the custard mixture, filling the tart 4/5 of the way so that a rim of crust is exposed. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until beginning to color and the flan has set.

PEAR AND ARUGULA SMOOTHIE WITH GINGER AND WALNUTS

Steps:

• Place all of the ingredients in a blender and blend for 1 full minute.

MA TANTE'S CARAMELIZED PEAR & GINGER TART

Steps:

• Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
• Peel and slice pears,
• Caramelize the pears in butter and 3 tbsps sugar. Cook until a nice golden brown and set aside to cool.
• Arrange the cooled, caramelized pears nicely in the unbaked pie crust.
• Blend together the eggs, remaining sugar, minced candied ginger, cream, ground almonds and pear brandy or nectar.
• Pour the custard mixture over the pears and place in a preheated oven and bake for 25 - 30 minutes. (or until done)
• Let rest for 10 minutes before serving -- this is equally as good cold as it is warm.
• When ready garnish with a large dollop of whipped cream and sprinkle remaining shredded candied ginger overtop.
• Enjoy, enjoy, enjoy!