Image Source: The Citizen
Introduction
Souttert (Savoury Tart) is a classic South African dish featuring a buttery pastry crust filled with eggs, cheese, and optional bacon or vegetables. Loved for its rich, comforting flavour, souttert is perfect for lunches, light dinners, or picnics. Unlike heavier baked dishes, this tart is versatile, easy to prepare, and satisfying, making it a staple in many South African homes.Tips & Techniques
- Blind bake the crust: Prevents a soggy base and ensures a crisp tart.
- Evenly chop filling ingredients: Ensures consistent flavour and texture in every bite.
- Whisk eggs and milk thoroughly: For a smooth, custardy filling.
- Do not overfill: Leaves space for the egg mixture to set without spilling.
- Bake until golden: The tart is done when the top is set and lightly browned.
Delicious Variations
Flavour Variations
- Vegetarian version: Replace bacon or ham with mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables.
- Cheese variations: Use feta, mozzarella, or gouda for different flavours.
- Herb infusion: Add parsley, thyme, or chives to the egg mixture for freshness.
- Spicy twist: Include a pinch of paprika, chili flakes, or mustard for extra zing.
Serving Suggestions
- As a lunch or light dinner: Serve warm with a crisp green salad.
- For picnics or packed lunches: Delicious served cold or at room temperature.
- With soups or stews: A hearty accompaniment to lighter dishes.
- For brunch: Pair with fresh fruit or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I make Souttert ahead of time?
Yes, prepare and bake in advance. Reheat gently before serving or enjoy cold.Q2: How long does it take to prepare?
About 15 minutes preparation time and 35–40 minutes baking time.Q3: Can I freeze Souttert?
Yes, bake, cool completely, and freeze. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.Q4: How many people does this recipe serve?
About 4–6 servings, depending on portion size.Lighter & Free-From Options
- Lower-fat: Use less cheese and leaner bacon or omit altogether.
- Dairy-free: Use plant-based cheese and butter alternatives.
- Gluten-free: Substitute the crust with a gluten-free pastry.
Nutritional Notes & Cultural Background
Souttert is high in protein and calcium from eggs and cheese and can include fibre and vitamins when vegetables are added. It reflects South Africa’s love for practical, flavourful baked dishes—easy to make, filling, and perfect for sharing with family and friends.In Summary
To make traditional South African Souttert, prepare a buttery pastry crust, fill with eggs, cheese, and optional bacon or vegetables, and bake until golden and set. Rich, versatile, and satisfying, this savoury tart remains a favourite at South African tables.
Souttert (Savoury Tart)
Souttert (Savoury Tart). This authentic recipe is simple to make and guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (for the crust)
- 125 g cold butter, cubed (for the crust)
- 1 egg (for the crust)
- 2–3 tbsp cold water (for the crust)
- pinch of salt (for the crust)
- 1 tbsp butter or oil (for the filling)
- 1 onion, finely chopped (for the filling)
- 1 clove garlic, minced (for the filling)
- 150 g cooked bacon or ham, diced (optional)(for the filling)
- 1 cup grated cheese (cheddar or a mix) (for the filling)
- 3 eggs (for the filling)
- ½ cup milk or cream (for the filling)
- 1 tsp mustard (optional)(for the filling)
- salt and black pepper to taste (for the filling)
- fresh herbs (parsley, thyme) (optional)(for the filling)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust:Mix flour and salt in a bowl. Rub in butter until mixture resembles breadcrumbs.Add egg and water, knead gently until dough comes together.Wrap in cling film and chill for 15 minutes.
- Blind bake the crust:Roll out the dough and line a tart or pie tin.Prick the base with a fork.Bake at 180°C for 10 minutes, then remove and set aside.
- Make the filling:Heat butter or oil in a pan. Sauté onion and garlic until soft.Add bacon/ham and cook briefly.Let it cool slightly, then mix with grated cheese.
- Assemble the tart:Whisk eggs with milk/cream, mustard, salt, pepper, and herbs.Spread the onion-cheese-bacon mixture over the baked crust.Pour egg mixture on top.
- Bake:Bake at 180°C for 25–30 minutes, or until the filling is set and golden on top.Allow to cool slightly before slicing.