Kugel for autumn holidays

Kughel for Autumn Celebrations

Kughel is a traditional dish that combines flavors and textures in a delicious way, making it perfect for festive autumn meals. This recipe will not only provide you with a warm and comforting snack but also a story rich in tradition in every bite. I recommend preparing it with love and patience, as the final result will be worth every minute spent in the kitchen.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 50-60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

Necessary ingredients:
- 400 g wide pasta (preferably tagliatelle or fettuccine)
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup (about 200 g) of sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons of honey
- 2-3 tablespoons of tart jam (preferably currant or orange)
- 2 green apples, peeled and grated
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2-3 tablespoons of oil (for greasing the tray)
- 1/4 cup of raisins (soaked in warm water)
- 1/4 cup of nuts, chopped and lightly toasted

Preparation:
1. Boiling the pasta: Start by putting a large pot of water on the stove. Add a tablespoon of salt and let it boil. When the water is boiling, add the pasta and cook until al dente, according to the package instructions. It is important not to overcook them, as they will continue to cook in the oven.

2. Draining the pasta: Once the pasta is ready, drain it in a colander and let it cool slightly. Now is the time to add the oil to prevent sticking. Mix well to ensure that each piece of pasta is evenly coated.

3. Preparing the mixture: In a large bowl, beat the eggs with the sugar and honey until you get a smooth and fluffy mixture. Add the tart jam, grated apples, cinnamon, raisins, and toasted nuts. Mix well to integrate all the ingredients.

4. Combining the pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the bowl with the egg mixture and stir everything together with a spatula or wooden spoon. Make sure the pasta is well coated with the egg mixture and ingredients.

5. Preparing the tray: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a 30x40 cm tray with oil, ensuring it is well covered. Pour the pasta mixture into the tray and smooth the surface with a spatula.

6. Baking: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the kughel is golden and firm to the touch. The aroma that will spread throughout the kitchen will make you eagerly await to enjoy it.

7. Serving: Once the kughel is ready, let it cool slightly before cutting it into portions. You can serve it warm, alongside a spoonful of sour cream or vanilla ice cream, for a pleasant contrast between hot and cold.

Practical tips:
- Choosing the pasta: You can also use whole grain pasta for a healthier option.
- Jam variation: If you prefer a less tart flavor, you can use peach or apricot jam.
- Tricks for an intense flavor: Try adding a splash of vanilla extract to the egg mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
- Storing the kughel: If you have leftovers, you can keep it in the fridge for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or in the oven.

Nutritional benefits:
This kughel recipe is rich in carbohydrates from the pasta, protein from the eggs, and healthy fats from the nuts. The apples provide a source of vitamins and fiber, while cinnamon has antioxidant properties. Additionally, the honey and jam offer a natural sweetness, making this dish healthier than many other desserts.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I replace the eggs with a vegan substitute?
- You can use banana puree or a mixture of flaxseeds with water, but the textures may vary.

2. How can I make the kughel less sweet?
- You can reduce the amount of sugar and honey, adjusting the sweetness to your taste.

3. What other ingredients can I add?
- Experiment with golden raisins, dried cranberries, or even dark chocolate for a decadent touch.

This kughel for autumn celebrations is not just a dish but a true culinary experience that will bring joy to your table. Whether you choose to serve it on a special occasion or simply as a dessert on the weekend, it will surely be appreciated by all who taste it. So embrace tradition and let your imagination soar in the kitchen!