Hailing from South Africa, Souttert stands as a cornerstone in the nation’s vibrant culinary heritage. Imagine it as the quiche’s cousin, yet infused with a unique South African flavor. Ideal for those who love exploring international cuisines or are aficionados of comfort food, this dish is a culinary delight you shouldn’t miss.

In this article, we will take you on a journey to discover the exquisite taste of Souttert, providing a comprehensive guide to prepare your very own delectable version. From exploring its historical significance to a detailed step-by-step cooking tutorial, prepare yourself for a rich, flavorful expedition.

Souttert: Every bite infused with tradition

Souttert’s history is as rich as its taste. The term, which means ‘savoury tart’ in Afrikaans, refers to a traditional dish typically enjoyed as a snack, part of a picnic, or served as a side dish on a special occasion. It is a common practice to bring a Souttert to gatherings. This act signifies one’s effort to contribute to the communal feast that often overloads the tables at various gatherings.

Souttert is made with a blend of eggs, flour, and grated cheese. This dish shares similarities with the French quiche but is distinguished by its higher milk and flour content, resulting in a creamier texture. Traditionally, South African versions of this tart are more generously filled with ingredients.

What sets Souttert apart is not just its flavor, but the way it has been handed down through generations, embodying family and community ties. Each household may have its unique version, passed from parents to children and cherished for its taste and the memories it invokes.

Crafting your Souttert masterpiece

Now comes the exciting part – making your own Souttert! Here’s an easy-to-follow recipe to lead you through the steps:

Ingredients

For the pastry:

• 250g flour
• 125g butter
• A pinch of salt
• Cold water

For the filling:

• 200g cooked ham, chopped
• 200g mature cheddar cheese, grated
• 4 large eggs
• 300ml milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 large onion, finely chopped (optional)
• 100g fresh spinach, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pastry:
   In a bowl, combine the flour and salt, then rub in the butter until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Add enough cold water to form a dough. Roll out the pastry and line a greased tart dish. Pre-bake the crust for 10 minutes at 180°C to avoid a soggy bottom, then set aside.
2. Make the Filling:
   In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and milk together. Add the chopped ham, grated cheese, salt, pepper, onions, and spinach. Mix until all the ingredients are combined.
3. Assemble and Bake:
   Pour the filling into the pre-baked pastry crust. Bake in the oven at 180°C for 30-40 minutes or until the top is golden and the filling is set.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
   Allow your Souttert to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm as a main course with a fresh salad, or cut into smaller portions for a delightful snack or appetizer.

Souttert: a versatile tart

Don’t be afraid to experiment with this recipe, and feel free to make it your own. Add your choice of spices, swap the ham for bacon, or sneak in some extra veggies. The beauty of Souttert lies not only in its taste but in its ability to adapt and evolve with each chef who takes it on. It’s more than just food; it’s a story on your plate.

FinGlobal: cross-border financial specialists for South Africans

Relocating your finances after emigration doesn’t have to be stressful. FinGlobal offers a full suite of services aimed at helping South Africans to make a smooth transition from one country to another. From tax emigration, to tax clearance, tax refunds, to retirement annuity withdrawals and international money transfers, FinGlobal provides secure, convenient online services to take the stress out of your money moves.

To find out more about FinGlobal’s services, please leave your contact details below and we’ll be in touch to see how we can help.