Apple and walnut strudel

Apple and Walnut Strudel - a delicious fasting recipe

If you're looking for a simple yet refined dessert that brings a smile to your face and is perfect for fasting days, apple and walnut strudel is the ideal choice. This recipe combines the crispy texture of puff pastry with the sweetness of caramelized apples and the aroma of walnuts, offering an irresistible delight.

A bit of history

Strudel is a dessert with a rich history, associated with the culinary traditions of several cultures. Over time, it has evolved from a simple filled dough into various forms, with apples as the main ingredient. Today, it is celebrated in many households, being a symbol of comfort, perfect for serving with a cup of hot tea or coffee.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 35-40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 8-10 slices

Ingredients

- 1 package of puff pastry (approximately 250 g)
- 8 medium apples (preferably tart apples)
- 50 g walnuts (coarsely chopped)
- 5 tablespoons sugar (you can adjust to taste)
- 1-2 tablespoons cinnamon (to taste)
- Breadcrumbs (approximately 2-3 tablespoons to absorb moisture)

Useful tips about ingredients

- Apples: Choose firmer apples, such as tart varieties, that hold up well during cooking. Granny Smith or Golden Delicious are excellent for this strudel.
- Walnuts: You can use Romanian walnuts, hazelnuts, or even almonds for a touch of diversity. Lightly roast them in a pan to enhance their flavor.
- Sugar: If you prefer a less sweet dessert, you can reduce the amount of sugar or use a natural substitute like honey or maple syrup.

Steps for preparation

1. Thawing the dough: Remove the puff pastry from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature. This step is essential for achieving a perfect texture when baking.

2. Preparing the filling: Peel the apples and grate them using a large grater. It’s important to squeeze out excess juice to avoid a watery filling. In a thick-bottomed pot, add the grated apples, sugar, cinnamon, and chopped walnuts. Sauté the mixture over medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring constantly, until the apples become soft. Once the filling is ready, let it cool.

3. Shaping the strudel: On a floured work surface, roll out the puff pastry into an even sheet. Divide the dough into three along the long side, and cut the outer edges into strips 1.5-2 cm wide. This step helps in braiding the strudel.

4. Assembling: Sprinkle breadcrumbs on the middle strip of dough (this will help absorb moisture) and add the apple filling. Then, alternately cover the side strips over the filling, creating a braided appearance. Ensure that the filling is well covered.

5. Baking: Transfer the strudel to a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Preheat the oven to 180°C and bake the strudel for 35-40 minutes or until golden and crispy.

6. Cooling and serving: Allow the strudel to cool slightly after removing it from the oven, then slice it. You can sprinkle powdered sugar on top for an elegant touch.

Serving suggestions

Apple and walnut strudel is delicious and simple and can be served warm or cold. You can accompany it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of soy cream for a contrast of textures.

Possible variations

- Different fruits: Experiment with other fruits like pears or peaches for a seasonal twist.
- Spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the filling for an extra flavor boost.
- Dough: If you want a gluten-free version, you can use a specialized gluten-free dough.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use canned apples?: While possible, it is recommended to use fresh apples to avoid a too moist filling.
- How can I store the strudel?: The strudel stores well at room temperature for 1-2 days, but for greater freshness, you can keep it in the fridge.
- Can it be frozen?: Yes, uncooked strudel can be frozen. Make sure it is well wrapped in plastic wrap.

Nutritional benefits

This apple and walnut strudel is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Apples are an excellent source of fiber and vitamin C, while walnuts provide omega-3 fatty acids and protein. Without any animal-derived ingredients, the recipe is perfect for those following a fasting or vegetarian diet.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to get cooking! The apple and walnut strudel will delight you with every slice, and your loved ones will surely thank you for the treat. Bon appétit!