Vanilla Nut Pasha Delight

This delightful Vanilla Nut Pasha is a creamy and rich traditional dessert that combines the mild tang of cottage cheese with the warmth of vanilla and crunch of nuts. It’s a wonderful treat perfect for special celebrations or to impress your guests. The process of making this dish might appear lengthy, but the results are well worth it. It involves creating a velvety base with blended cottage cheese and introducing subtle flavors from vanilla and nuts. You can customize it with your choice of add-ins like dried fruits for different textures and flavors. Perfectly paired with fresh berries or a dollop of cream, this dish offers a rich, satisfying experience. Whether for a festive occasion or a casual dinner, this dessert is sure to please. The inclusion of various nuts and fruits not only elevates its taste but makes it look elegantly pleasing. Above all, the anticipation as it sets is as exciting as the first bite you take, which provides a true indulgence.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 0.5 kg cottage cheese (grainy, lightly moist, low-fat)
• 100 g butter (room temperature)
• 2 eggs
• 100 g sour cream
• 100 g fresh cheese
• 4 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla sugar

Extras

• A handful of raisins
• A handful of peanuts (or nuts of choice)
• Additional tools: 4 layers of cheesecloth, Container with drainage holes

Preparation Time

• 30 minutes (plus ~12 hours chilling time)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Blend the Base: Start by blending the cottage cheese until smooth. Add in the butter and fresh cheese and blend again until the mixture becomes homogeneous.
2. Prepare the Egg Mixture: Lightly beat the eggs with sugar and vanilla sugar until slightly frothy. Mix this with the sour cream.
3. Heat the Mixture: Place the egg mixture on low heat and continuously stir. Add raisins during this process to soften them as the mixture heats.
4. Thickening: Keep stirring until the mixture starts to thicken, making sure not to let it curdle.
5. Cool Down: Once thickened, allow the mixture to cool completely.
6. Prepare Nuts and Fruits: Cut up any marmalades or dried fruits you plan to use. Toast the nuts lightly and crush them before mixing them.
7. Combine Mixtures: Once cooled, fold the egg mixture into the blended cheese base, integrating all the ingredients thoroughly.
8. Mold the Pasha: Line your container with a dampened cheesecloth and fill it with the cheese mixture. Press it down gently.
9. Let it Rest: Put a weight on top of the mixture to press it down and let it chill in the refrigerator for about 12 hours. Place the container over another to catch any drippings.
10. Unmold and Serve: Invert the mold onto a serving dish and carefully remove the cheesecloth. Your Pasha should come out beautifully shaped.
11. Texture Note: If using marmalade bits, they may melt slightly, resulting in a softer texture. Without marmalade, it will hold a firmer consistency.
12. Final Taste Test: Slice into portions. Despite potential cutting challenges, each piece promises a flavor burst with its creamy and nutty profile.
13. Enjoy the Richness: Celebrate the creamy texture enhanced by the crunch of the nuts.
14. Patience Pays Off: Though the wait can be tough, it yields a truly delicious outcome, especially exciting for a first-time preparation.
15. Personalize It: Enjoy experimenting with additional nuts or fruits, whether fresh or dried, tailoring it to your tastes.
16. Flavor Variations: Opt for a citrus twist by adding lemon zest, or introduce chocolate for deeper flavors.
17. Perfect for Gatherings: Ideal for gatherings where it's sure to impress with its unique sophistication.
18. Adapting the Recipe: The simplicity of the process allows room for creativity while maintaining its genuine essence.
19. A Special Occasion Treat: Matches well with a festive spirit, being both traditional and indulgent.
20. Present with Pride: Present it confidently, knowing its taste delivers a delightful surprise.

Tips

• Substitutions: Feel free to use any kind of nuts or dried fruits you love; almonds or dried apricots can be excellent choices.
• Texture Management: Keep the mixture thick and smooth by stirring continuously during heating to prevent curdling.
• Advanced Preparation: Make it the day before to allow flavors to meld and the pasha to set properly for a smooth, cohesive texture.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
• Protein: 10g
• Fats: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 20g

Variations

• Add grated lemon or orange zest for citrus notes.
• Include cocoa powder in the mix for a chocolatey version.
• Substitute cottage cheese with ricotta for a different texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with fresh berries or fruit compote for added freshness.
• Dust with powdered sugar or cocoa on top for presentation.
• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for extra indulgence.

Best Places

1. The Cheesecake Corner - Known for their rich and diverse varieties of cheesecakes and pashas. Location: 123 Bliss Lane, New York City, USA.
2. Cafe Pushkin - Offers a delightful blend of Eastern European desserts. Location: Tverskoy Blvd, Moscow, Russia.
3. La Patisserie Chouquette - A charming bakery known for elegant pastries. Location: 1625 Tower Grove Ave, St. Louis, USA.
4. Konditori La Glace - One of the oldest cafes serving remarkable desserts. Location: Skoubogade 3, Copenhagen, Denmark.
5. Angelina Paris - Famous for their decadent hot chocolate and delicate desserts. Location: 226 Rue de Rivoli, Paris, France.
6. Ladurée - World-renown for their luxurious pastries and macaroons. Location: 16-18 rue Royale, Paris, France.
7. Demel - Historic cafe offering classic Austrian pastries. Location: Kohlmarkt 14, Vienna, Austria.
8. Zurich's Confiserie Sprüngli - Known for Swiss chocolate and inventive desserts. Location: Bahnhofstrasse 21, Zürich, Switzerland.
9. Café Sacher Vienna - Home to the original Sacher-Torte and other delights. Location: Philharmoniker Str., Vienna, Austria.
10. Ritz-Carlton Tokyo - Offers a blend of international and traditional sweets. Location: 9 Chome-7-1 Akasaka, Minato City, Tokyo, Japan.