Sierra Cheese Skewers Delight

Discover the rich blend of creamy and savory flavors in the Sierra Cheese Skewers Delight. With a touch of whiskey to enhance the depth of taste, this dish promises a delightful culinary experience. The preparation emphasizes the balance of soft cheese and a hint of saltiness from the ammonium carbonate, providing a unique aroma. The pastry, made with butter and cream, achieves a flakey and tender texture after multiple chilling stages. Each skewer is carefully crafted to create the perfect bite-sized treat, ideal for casual gatherings and sophisticated parties alike. What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity, despite the complex flavors it delivers. The skewers can be served warm from the oven or saved for a tasty snack later. Pair them with your favorite dip or enjoy them as they are. This dish will quickly become a go-to favorite for its ease and gourmet flair.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 100 g butter
• 100 g cream
• 2 eggs
• 350 g flour
• Cheese (amount as desired)

Spices and Sauces

• 5 g ammonium carbonate (briežraga sāls)
• 1 tbsp whiskey

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 120 minutes (including prep and cook time)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: Begin by sifting the flour into a large bowl. Grate the butter into the flour and mix until crumbly.
2. Add Cheese and Cream: Shred the cheese finely and combine it with cream, beaten eggs, and whiskey. Add this mixture to the flour-butter blend.
3. Dissolve the Ammonium Carbonate: Dissolve the ammonium carbonate in a small amount of cold water before incorporating it into the dough mixture.
4. Mix the Dough: Stir all the ingredients thoroughly until they form a uniform dough.
5. Chill the Dough: Position the dough in the freezer for 30 minutes to firm it up.
6. Roll and Fold: Once chilled, roll the dough out into a thin sheet. Fold it over several times, then return it to the freezer. Repeat this step three times to ensure a flaky texture.
7. Final Roll Out: Roll the dough to about 0.5 cm thickness after the final chill.
8. Shape the Skewers: Cut the dough into strips, shaping them into skewers or strips as preferred.
9. Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 200°C while finishing the final preparations.
10. Bake the Skewers: Arrange the strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake until golden brown.
11. Monitor the Baking: Keep an eye on the skewers to prevent over-browning, which should take about 10-15 minutes.
12. Cooling Phase: Allow the skewers to cool slightly on a wire rack for optimal crispiness.
13. Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm or at room temperature. These skewers are perfect as a standalone snack or accompanying dish.

Tips

• Flour Substitute: Consider using whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
• Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for varied tastes.
• Whiskey Alternative: Omit or replace whiskey with a light wine or non-alcoholic option if preferred.
• Freezing Tips: If short on time, complete the chilling steps using the refrigerator instead of the freezer.

Nutrition (per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 250
• Protein: 6g
• Fats: 15g
• Carbs: 20g

Variations

• Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter, cheese, and cream substitutes.
• Gluten-Free Option: Employ a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy the skewers with a side of marinara sauce or a creamy garlic dip for added flavor.
• Pair with a light salad for a balanced meal.
• Serve alongside soups like tomato bisque for a comforting lunch or dinner.

Best Places

• The Cheese Bar - Specializes in unique cheese dishes. Location: 26 Camden Market, London, UK.
• Melt Room - Known for its gourmet cheese melts. Location: 26 Noel Street, Soho, London, UK.
• The Grilled Cheese Grill - Iconic for creative cheese sandwiches. Location: 1027 NE Alberta St, Portland, USA.
• Cheesetique - Offers a variety of cheese-centered delights. Location: 2411 Mount Vernon Ave, Alexandria, USA.
• Barnyard Cheese Shop - Small but with a vast selection of cheese platters. Location: 149 Ave C, New York, USA.
• Cheese Bar - Features melted cheese specials. Location: Noordermarkt 43, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
• La Cave à Fromage - French classic cheese dishes in a cozy setting. Location: 24 Wellington St, London, UK.
• Say Cheese - Pop-up venue known for artisanal cheeses. Location: Handsworth Road, Sheffield, UK.
• Raclette NYC - Spezialitzes in Swiss-style melted cheese dishes. Location: 511 East 12th Street, New York, USA.
• Milk the Cow Licensed fromagerie - Offers a wide selection of cheeses. Location: 157 Fitzroy St, St Kilda, Australia.