Caraway snacks

Cumin Pastries - A Delicious and Economical Recipe

If you're looking for a quick and delicious recipe, cumin pastries are the perfect choice! These crunchy and flavorful snacks are ideal for any occasion, from parties to casual gatherings with friends or simply to enjoy a savory snack. Plus, the necessary ingredients are simple, accessible, and, above all, the recipe is one of the most economical. Let's discover together how to prepare these delicious pastries!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20-25 minutes
Total time: 55-60 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 30 pastries

Your ingredients:
- 1 cup (approximately 200 g) lard (or shortening)
- 200 ml water
- 4 tablespoons vinegar
- 1 grain of yeast
- 1 egg
- Flour as needed (approximately 500 g)
- 1 cup of lard mixed with 1 cup of flour for filling (cream consistency)
- Salt (to taste)
- 1 egg for brushing
- Cumin (to taste)

About pastries

Pastries are a traditional snack that has been appreciated over time for their crunchy texture and unmistakable aroma. They can be made with various ingredients and fillings, but this recipe is based on the classic combination of cumin, which adds a distinct flavor note. Ideal to be served alongside a glass of cold beer or white wine, pastries are also perfect to be enjoyed plain, as a snack between meals.

Preparing the dough

1. Start by melting the lard (or shortening) in a large bowl. You can gently heat it on low to make it easier to mix.

2. Add the egg, salt, vinegar, and water to the bowl. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly combined.

3. In another bowl, dissolve the yeast in a little warm water (approximately 50 ml) and let it sit for a few minutes until it becomes frothy.

4. Add the activated yeast to the lard mixture and mix well.

5. Start adding the flour gradually, mixing continuously, until you obtain a homogeneous dough, but not too soft. It is important not to add all the flour at once; adjust the amount according to the moisture of the ingredients.

Kneading technique is essential to obtain a perfect dough. Make sure to knead the dough well for about 5-7 minutes to activate the gluten in the flour, which will help achieve a flaky texture.

Shaping the pastries

6. On a floured work surface, roll out the dough into a square sheet about 1 cm thick. Don’t forget to flour your work surface well to prevent sticking.

7. In a separate bowl, mix the lard with the flour (1 cup of each) until you achieve a consistency similar to cream. This will be your filling.

8. Spread half of the lard mixture over the rolled-out dough sheet, then fold the dough into an envelope shape. This technique is similar to that used for making puff pastry, allowing the dough to become flaky and layered.

9. Roll out the dough again with a rolling pin and repeat the process with the other half of the lard mixture. After each rolling, fold the dough again into an envelope shape.

10. Once you’ve finished folding, refrigerate the dough for about an hour. This step is essential to give the dough time to cool and become easier to handle.

Baking the pastries

11. After the dough has cooled, take it out of the fridge and roll it out again, this time into sheets about 1 cm thick.

12. Preheat the oven to 180°C.

13. Cut the dough into desired shapes (pieces or stars) and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

14. Beat an egg and carefully brush each pastry. This step will not only give a beautiful golden color but will also help caramelize the cumin on top.

15. Sprinkle salt and cumin on each pastry, then place the tray in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastries become golden and crunchy.

16. Once baked, let them cool on a cooling rack to maintain their crunchy texture.

Serving and suggestions

Cumin pastries are perfect to be served alongside various drinks, such as beer or dry white wine. You can offer them as an appetizer at a party or enjoy them with family, alongside a fresh salad. They are also ideal for snacking between meals.

Variations

For an even more captivating flavor, you can experiment with different spices, such as sesame seeds or dill. You can also replace cumin with other aromatic spices, depending on your preferences.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can other types of fats be used instead of lard?
Yes, you can use butter or margarine, but the texture and taste will be different.

2. How can I store the pastries?
The pastries are best consumed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container for 3-5 days.

3. Can they be frozen?
Yes, the pastries can be frozen. Make sure to let them cool completely before placing them in a freezer container.

4. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of white flour?
Yes, but the texture will be denser and the taste slightly different. You may need to adjust the amount of water.

Calories and nutritional benefits

Cumin pastries are a tasty snack but should be consumed in moderation, considering the fat content from the lard. A serving (approximately 3 pastries) contains about 150-200 calories, depending on the amount of ingredients used. Cumin not only adds a pleasant taste but also digestive benefits.

In conclusion, cumin pastries are an excellent choice for any occasion, offering a savory taste and a crunchy texture. Experiment with the ingredients and enjoy a moment of culinary indulgence. Enjoy your meal!