Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transform your kitchen into a gourmet Italian sanctuary! This Gorgonzola and Cheese Strudel with Spiced Pickled Pears is not just a recipe—it's an extraordinary gastronomic adventure that combines the bold, creamy richness of artisan cheeses with the delicate, tangy sweetness of perfectly spiced pears. Imagine a golden, flaky pastry concealing a luxurious cheese blend and tender, aromatic pears that will make your taste buds dance with delight. Whether you're hosting an elegant dinner party or treating yourself to a special meal, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking skills and impress even the most discerning food lovers.
Ingredients
- 250g gorgonzola cheese
- 250g ricotta cheese
- 1 sheet of puff pastry
- 2 pears, sliced
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 cup sugar
- Spices (cinnamon, cloves, star anise)
Instructions
- Prepare the spiced pickled pears by combining white vinegar, sugar, cinnamon stick, whole cloves, and star anise in a saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring until sugar dissolves completely.
- Slice the pears thinly and carefully add them to the hot pickling liquid. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes until pears are slightly tender but still hold their shape. Remove from heat and let cool in the pickling liquid.
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a mixing bowl, combine gorgonzola and ricotta cheeses. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well-integrated, creating a creamy cheese filling.
- Carefully roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Spread the cheese mixture evenly across the pastry, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Drain the pickled pears and arrange them strategically over the cheese mixture. Reserve some pickling liquid for later glazing.
- Carefully roll the pastry into a strudel shape, ensuring edges are sealed by pressing gently and brushing with a beaten egg wash.
- Place the strudel on the prepared baking sheet, seam-side down. Brush the top with egg wash and make a few small diagonal slits to allow steam to escape.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the pastry is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes. Brush with reserved pickling liquid for added flavor and shine.
- Slice and serve warm, garnishing with additional spices or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Cheese Temperature Matters: Allow your gorgonzola and ricotta to sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before mixing. This ensures a smoother, more homogeneous filling.
- Pastry Precision: When rolling your puff pastry, work on a lightly floured surface and handle it gently to maintain its delicate layers.
- Pickling Pro Tip: Don't discard the pickling liquid! It's a flavor powerhouse that can be used for glazing or as a unique salad dressing.
- Egg Wash Technique: For a stunning golden-brown finish, apply egg wash twice—once before baking and once halfway through cooking.
- Resting is Crucial: Let the strudel rest for 5-10 minutes after baking. This allows the cheese to set and makes slicing easier.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair with a crisp white wine or a light salad to balance the rich, creamy flavors of the strudel.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Cholesterol: 80mg
