Heavenly Morel Tarts are savory pastries that combine the rich, earthy flavors of morel mushrooms with a creamy filling, all encased in a flaky pastry crust. These tarts are a delightful addition to any appetizer spread, offering a taste of spring’s finest offerings.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Pastry:

• 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup butter or margarine, softened
• 1½ cups all-purpose flour

For the Filling:

• 6 ounces fresh morel mushrooms or button mushrooms
• ½ cup chopped onion
• 3 tablespoons butter or margarine
• ¼ cup dairy sour cream
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ⅛ teaspoon dried marjoram, crushed
• ⅛ teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed
• 1 egg, lightly beaten

Directions

For the Pastry:

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and ½ cup butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth.
2. Add 1½ cups flour and beat on low speed until combined.
3. Cover the dough and chill for at least 1 hour or until easy to handle.

For the Filling:

1. Clean the mushrooms by placing them in a large bowl, covering with cold water, adding ½ teaspoon salt, and soaking for 10 to 15 minutes. Drain, rinse, and repeat two more times. Drain thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels. Chop the mushrooms to yield about 2 cups.
2. In a large skillet, cook the chopped onion in 3 tablespoons butter over medium heat until tender.
3. Add the chopped mushrooms and cook, stirring for 3 to 5 minutes, until the liquid is nearly evaporated. Remove from heat.
4. In a small bowl, stir together the sour cream, 2 tablespoons flour, ¼ teaspoon salt, marjoram, and rosemary until combined.
5. Stir the sour cream mixture into the mushroom-onion mixture.

Assembling the Tarts:

1. On a floured surface, slightly flatten the chilled dough. Roll it out from the center to the edges to ⅛-inch thickness.
2. Cut the dough into twenty-four 3-inch circles, rerolling as necessary.
3. Using small cutters, make cutouts in the centers of half of the rounds or cut a slit in half of the rounds to allow steam to escape during baking.
4. Place 12 of the circles (without cutouts) on an ungreased baking sheet.
5. Place about 1 tablespoon of the filling in the center of each.
6. Moisten the edges of the filled pastries with a little water.
7. Top with the remaining 12 circles (with cutouts or slits).
8. Crimp the edges together with a fork and brush the tops with the lightly beaten egg.
9. Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 25 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown. Serve warm.

Nutritional Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 237
• Total Fat: 19g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
• Cholesterol: 68mg
• Sodium: 188mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 14g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Vitamin C: 1mg
• Calcium: 30mg
• Iron: 1mg

The Allure of Morel Mushrooms

Morel mushrooms (Morchella spp.) are among the most esteemed wild mushrooms, celebrated for their distinctive appearance and complex, nutty flavor. Foraging for morels is a cherished tradition in many regions, particularly during their brief spring season. Their unique honeycomb-like structure and hollow interiors make them easily identifiable. Incorporating morels into dishes such as these tarts elevates the flavor profile, adding depth and a touch of gourmet sophistication.​

Culinary Significance

Morels have been prized in various cuisines for centuries. Their ability to absorb and complement surrounding flavors makes them versatile in numerous dishes, from simple sautés to complex sauces. In European culinary traditions, morels are often paired with rich creams and wines, enhancing their natural umami characteristics. Incorporating morels into appetizers like the Heavenly Morel Tarts allows chefs and home cooks alike to showcase this mushroom’s unique qualities in a refined manner.​

Seasonality and Sourcing

The morel’s fleeting appearance each spring adds to its allure. Foragers often embark on expeditions in forests and woodlands, seeking out these elusive fungi. Regions with a history of morel growth include the Midwest and Pacific Northwest of the United States, as well as parts of Europe and Asia. Due to their popularity and limited availability, morels can be expensive, making dishes that feature them, such as Heavenly Morel Tarts, a special treat reserved for occasions that warrant culinary indulgence.​

Understanding the Pastry

The foundation of these tarts is a cream cheese pastry that imparts a tender, flaky texture with a subtle tang. Cream cheese contributes richness and elasticity to the dough, facilitating ease of handling and rolling. Upon baking, the pastry achieves a delicate crispness that pairs wonderfully with the savory filling. Chilling the dough before baking is essential, as it helps maintain its structure and prevents unwanted shrinking during the baking process.​

Techniques for Working with Phyllo Pastry

Phyllo pastry, known for its paper-thin layers, originates from Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines. When baked, these layers become light, crisp, and flaky. Working with phyllo requires careful handling, as the sheets can dry out rapidly. It’s crucial to keep unused sheets covered with a slightly damp cloth to preserve their flexibility. Brushing each layer with melted butter or oil not only adds flavor but also contributes to the desired flaky texture.​

Health Benefits of the Ingredients

• Morel Mushrooms: Rich in vitamins D and B, iron, phosphorus, and potassium, morels are low in calories and fat, making them a nutritious choice. ​

• Cream Cheese Pastry: While providing a rich flavor and tender texture, the cream cheese pastry contributes to the overall indulgence of the tarts. Opting for reduced-fat cream cheese can offer a lighter alternative without compromising taste.​

• Butter: Butter adds flavor and aids in achieving the desired flaky texture of the pastry. Using it in moderation helps balance taste and health considerations.​

• Sour Cream Filling: Sour cream introduces a tangy flavor that complements the mushrooms. It also adds creaminess to the filling, enhancing the overall mouthfeel.​

Variations and Serving Suggestions

While the classic recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors, several variations and serving suggestions can enhance the dish:

Alternative Mushrooms

If fresh morel mushrooms are unavailable, other wild mushrooms like chanterelles or porcini, or cultivated varieties such as shiitake or cremini, can be used. Each type imparts a unique flavor, allowing for customization based on availability and preference.​

Vegetarian Option

For a vegetarian version, omit the egg wash and ensure that all other ingredients are plant-based. This adaptation makes the tarts suitable for those avoiding animal products while maintaining their delicious essence.​

Herb Variations

Incorporating herbs such as thyme, tarragon, or chives can add aromatic complexity to the filling. Fresh parsley or chives sprinkled on top before serving introduce a fresh, vibrant note.​

Serving Suggestions

Serve the tarts warm, garnished with a sprig of fresh thyme or rosemary. They pair wonderfully with a crisp white wine or a light, refreshing salad. Presenting the tarts on a rustic wooden board or elegant platter enhances their visual appeal, making them an inviting centerpiece for any gathering.​

Conclusion

Heavenly Morel Tarts exemplify the exquisite flavors that morel mushrooms bring to the culinary world. Their combination of a rich, creamy filling and a flaky crust makes them an unforgettable appetizer that elevates any occasion. By understanding the nuances of morel mushrooms, mastering the art of phyllo pastry, and exploring various adaptations, one can fully appreciate and enjoy this sophisticated dish.