Marmalade with jam

Flaky Pastry with Plum Jam: A Fluffy and Tasty Lenten Delight

Who doesn’t love a dessert that brings comfort and joy on less inspired days? Flaky pastry with plum jam is an ideal choice, not just for fasting days, but for any occasion when you want to treat your loved ones to a delicious, easy-to-make, and incredibly fragrant dessert. This recipe is based on a beloved culinary tradition, but with a modern twist – we’ve replaced lard with oil, resulting in just as tender and tasty a dough. Let’s embark on this culinary journey!

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 12-16 servings

Ingredients

- 250 g margarine (or vegetable alternative)
- 25 g fresh yeast (about the size of a walnut)
- 1 cup of borscht (approx. 250 ml)
- 125 ml oil (you can use sunflower or canola oil)
- Flour, as needed (approximately 600 g)
- 300 g plum jam (or any preferred jam)
- A handful of unsalted ground nuts
- Powdered sugar for decoration

A Short Story

Flaky pastry with plum jam is a variation of traditional crescent rolls, but in a more friendly format for those looking to avoid animal fats. The star ingredient, plum jam, is not only delicious but also packed with antioxidants and vitamins. It’s a dessert that reminds us of childhood flavors and beautiful moments spent around the table.

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

1. Activating the Yeast: In a small bowl, crumble the yeast and add a teaspoon of sugar from the total amount. Pour in a little of the warm borscht and mix. Let the yeast activate for 10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

2. Mixing the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the melted margarine (not hot) with the oil and the remaining borscht. Mix well until you have a smooth mixture.

3. Adding the Flour: Start incorporating the flour gradually, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands. When the dough becomes less sticky, add the activated yeast. Continue kneading until you achieve an elastic and smooth dough that no longer sticks to your hands.

4. Chilling the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for one hour. This step is essential for achieving a flaky texture.

Step 2: Assembling the Pastry

1. Preparing the Baking Tray: Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Prepare a baking tray (approximately 30 x 40 cm) by greasing it with a little oil or margarine.

2. Dividing the Dough: After an hour, take the dough out of the refrigerator. Divide it into three parts: one third for decoration and two thirds for the base of the pastry.

3. Forming the Base: On a floured surface, roll out the first part of the dough into a thin sheet, large enough to cover the bottom of the tray. Place the sheet in the tray.

4. Adding the Jam: Spread a generous layer of plum jam over the dough base. Ensure it is even for a delicious pastry in every bite.

5. Ground Nuts: Sprinkle the ground nuts over the jam, adding a crunchy note and a unique flavor.

6. Decorating with Dough: Grate the second part of the remaining dough over the ground nuts using a large grater. This step will create a delicious crust and seal the filling.

Step 3: Baking

1. Baking: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes or until the pastry turns golden and beautifully browned.

2. Cooling and Decorating: Remove the pastry from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. While it’s still warm, sprinkle powdered sugar on top for a stunning visual effect and a sweet taste.

3. Cutting and Serving: Cut the pastry into desired shapes – squares, triangles, or diamonds. You can serve it warm or at room temperature, alongside a cup of tea or coffee. It’s also delicious with plain yogurt!

Tips and Variations

- Filling Variations: If you don’t have plum jam, don’t worry! This pastry is easily adaptable. You can use apricot, raspberry jam, or even a mix of jams. The taste will be different but just as delightful.
- Nuts: Instead of nuts, you can add walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds, depending on your preferences.
- Flavored Sugar: If you want to add a special touch, you can mix the powdered sugar with a little cinnamon or vanilla for a unique flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

This pastry will not only delight your taste buds but is also a relatively healthy choice for a dessert. Whole wheat flour (if you choose to use it) provides fiber, and plum jam is an excellent source of antioxidants. The oil used instead of lard makes this recipe a lighter option for those looking to avoid saturated fats.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of oil?
Yes, you can use any vegetable oil, but make sure to choose one with a neutral taste.

2. Can I freeze the pastry?
Yes, this pastry can be frozen. I recommend cutting it into portions and wrapping it well in plastic wrap before placing it in the freezer.

3. What’s the best way to serve it?
The flaky pastry is delicious both warm and cold, and you can serve it with a vanilla sauce or alongside a scoop of ice cream for a decadent dessert.

A Personal Note

I fondly remember the moments spent in the kitchen with my grandmother, who made this flaky pastry filled with love. Each bite reminds me of those warm, smile-filled moments. I encourage you to bring a touch of the magic of those memories into every portion of flaky pastry you prepare.

Happy cooking and enjoying!