My career in food began 20 years ago, when I volunteered to assist with cooking classes at Sur la Table. It was just a few classes here and there based on my interests, which I already knew was baking at that point. One of the recipes I remember to this day is this heirloom tomato tart. I can still recall my reaction I had when I ate it. Absolutely delicious. Flaky crust, subtle tartness from the Dijon mustard and the juiciest tomatoes. This is my take on the savory tart.
I love everything heart-shaped so I took my classic galette and formed it into a heart for a Valentine’s Day treat fit for two. It also highlights the heirloom pink pearl apple that has the unique pink flesh that gets more vibrant once baked.
I went to Chez Panisse for my 30th birthday and it was the most wonderful experience. If you’ve never been, I highly recommend going, regardless of whether or not you have something to celebrate. They really showcase what’s in season, which is how I get inspired to bake. The kitchen is connected to the restaurant and the staff encourages you to walk through as they’re cooking. I got up several times throughout the meal to check in on what they were doing, lingering mainly by the pastry station, of course. It was fall at the time (shout-out to fellow November babies!), so the chefs were making an apple version of their signature galette.
If I am forever known as the crazy pink pearl apple girl, I’ll gladly accept it. On Instagram, I tried to give myself the title “unofficial pink pearl apple ambassador” so it sounds less obsessive but honestly, I am truly, madly, deeply in love with these fruits.