When it comes to baking and creating culinary delights, inspiration can come from the most unexpected places.

For me, it was the captivating world of Maja Vase’s culinary creations that ignited my passion for crafting delectable treats.

This time, my journey into her world led me to a Strawberry Black Sesame Tart that left my taste buds dancing with delight.

Maja’s original recipe featured the intriguing flavor of black currant, a fruit not easily found in the markets of Northern California.

Undeterred by the unavailability of this key ingredient, I decided to embrace the local bounty of fresh, in-season strawberries as the perfect substitute, adding a sweet, floral note that beautifully complemented the nutty richness of black sesame.

As I embarked on this delightful baking adventure, I had a charming little companion by my side – my furry friend, Charlie.

With his playful antics and ever-curious nature, he brought an extra layer of joy to the baking process.

Unlike my other feline friend, Christmas, who prefers to lounge by the windowsill or rest on a comfy bed, Charlie seemed to be on a mission to be part of every step of the tart-making process.

From jumping into the frame while I was photographing to sitting right in front of my computer screen as I typed out this very blog, he added a touch of whimsy to the entire experience.

Making Strawberry Black Sesame Tart

Now, let’s delve into the key components that make this Strawberry Black Sesame Tart a memorable culinary creation:

Shortcrust

To start, the tart’s foundation is a delicate shortcrust that serves as the perfect vessel for the delightful filling.

• 25g of roasted black sesame seeds.
• 175g of all-purpose flour.
• 75g of cold butter.
• A good pinch of salt.
• 1/2 an egg.

Begin by blending the roasted black sesame seeds with the flour in a food processor. Add in the cold butter and salt, then blend the mixture quickly. Gently incorporate the egg to form the dough.

Roll the dough between two sheets of baking paper and allow it to rest in the refrigerator for a minimum of one hour.

Once rested, line a tart pan (approximately 18-20 cm in diameter) with the dough and dock the bottom with a fork. Place the pie in the fridge while we prepare the filling.

Sesame Frangipane

This is where the magic happens – a luscious sesame frangipane that marries the earthy tones of black sesame with the nutty richness of almonds.

• 25g roasted black sesame seeds.
• 25g almond flour.
• 50g sugar.
• 50g soft butter.
• 1 egg.
• A pinch of salt.

Blend the roasted black sesame seeds into a flour-like consistency. In a separate bowl, combine the almond flour, sugar, butter, egg, and salt.

Whisk everything together until you achieve a smooth and creamy texture. Distribute this heavenly sesame frangipane evenly in the prepared tart shell and smoothen the surface using a palette knife.

Bake the tart in an oven preheated to 350 degrees for approximately 25 minutes, or until it acquires a fine golden hue. Allow the tart to cool off, setting the stage for the next delectable layer.

Lemon Ganache

Adding a zesty twist to the tart is a luxurious lemon ganache that harmonizes with the sweet strawberry and nutty sesame.

• 200g white chocolate.
• 50ml heavy cream.
• 25ml strawberry puree.
• 25ml lemon juice.

Melt the white chocolate using a double boiler, ensuring that it’s melted to a smooth and velvety consistency. Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, bring the heavy cream and strawberry puree to a gentle boil.

Pour this hot mixture over the melted white chocolate, stirring gently and continuously at the center of the bowl.

Keep stirring until the ganache transforms into a beautiful, shiny mixture.  Finally, stir in the lemon juice to infuse that delightful citrus zing.

Pour the ganache in a thin, generous layer atop the sesame frangipane and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour, allowing the ganache to set and achieve the perfect texture.

Garnish

To finish off this delightful tart, let your creativity shine. I took inspiration from Maja Vase’s recipe, but feel free to make it your own.

• Cherry halves.
• Strawberry halves.
• Melted white chocolate.

The cherry halves add a burst of vibrant color, while the strawberry halves pay homage to the star of the show. Drizzle some melted white chocolate for an extra touch of elegance and sweetness.

In the end, what was born from inspiration and an adventure in local ingredients became a Strawberry Black Sesame Tart that captivates the palate with its unique combination of flavors and textures.

The sweet, floral notes of strawberries intermingle harmoniously with the nutty allure of black sesame, all cradled within a perfectly baked crust.

If you’re seeking a delightful twist on a classic tart, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds and add a touch of whimsy to your baking journey, just as Charlie did to mine.

Happy baking!