Strudel jabłkowy po chorwacku

Croatian apple strudel, known as “Strudel od Jabuka,” is a beloved dessert that embodies the rich culinary heritage of Croatia. This traditional pastry, with its flaky layers of filo dough enveloping a sweet and aromatic apple filling, is a testament to the country’s history and love for baking. This article will guide you through the art of making this delectable dessert, offering a detailed recipe and insightful tips for achieving a perfect Croatian apple strudel.

History and Significance

The origins of strudel can be traced back to the Ottoman Empire, where a similar pastry, “yufka,” was enjoyed. This pastry, with its thin layers of dough, eventually made its way to Central and Eastern Europe, where it evolved into the strudel we know today. In Croatia, apple strudel holds a special place in culinary tradition, often prepared for special occasions, holidays, and family gatherings. It is a symbol of warmth, comfort, and togetherness, reflecting the strong bonds of Croatian families and communities.

Ingredients

To embark on this culinary journey, gather the following ingredients⁚

For the Filo Dough

• 400 g all-purpose flour
• 250 ml warm water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Apple Filling

• 1 kg apples (such as Granny Smith or Golden Delicious)
• 100 g raisins
• 50 g walnuts, chopped
• 100 g sugar
• 2 tablespoons cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 50 g melted butter

For the Glaze

• 1 tablespoon melted butter
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon milk

Instructions

Now, let’s craft this culinary masterpiece⁚

Preparing the Filo Dough

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add the warm water, mixing with a wooden spoon until a dough forms.
2. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
3. Form the dough into a ball, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
4. Divide the dough into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a thin, rectangular sheet, about 30 cm x 40 cm.
5. Brush each sheet of filo with melted butter and stack them on a lightly floured surface.

Preparing the Apple Filling

1. Peel, core, and slice the apples thinly.
2. In a large bowl, combine the apple slices, raisins, walnuts, sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Toss gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.

Assembling the Strudel

1. Lay out a sheet of filo dough on a lightly floured surface. Brush it with melted butter.
2. Spread the apple filling evenly over the filo, leaving a 2-3 cm margin on all sides.
3. Fold the sides of the filo over the filling, then roll the strudel tightly from one end to the other.
4. Place the rolled strudel seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the top of the strudel with melted butter.

Baking the Strudel

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Bake the strudel for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

Glazing the Strudel

1. While the strudel is still warm, whisk together the melted butter, powdered sugar, and milk to create a glaze.
2. Pour the glaze over the strudel, ensuring it coats the entire surface evenly.

Serving the Strudel

Let the strudel cool slightly before slicing and serving. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. For an extra touch of indulgence, serve it with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce.

Baking Tips

To elevate your strudel-making experience, consider these helpful tips⁚

• For a crispier strudel, use a thin sheet of filo dough.
• Ensure the apple filling is not too wet, as this can make the strudel soggy.
• To prevent the filo dough from drying out, cover it with a damp cloth while not in use.
• If you are unable to find filo dough, you can use puff pastry as a substitute.
• For a more intense flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the apple filling.
• Experiment with different types of apples to create unique flavor profiles.

Variations

While the classic Croatian apple strudel is a timeless favorite, there are numerous variations that can be explored⁚

• Cherry Strudel⁚ Substitute the apple filling with a mixture of sweet cherries, sugar, and cinnamon;
• Walnut Strudel⁚ Combine chopped walnuts, sugar, and cinnamon for a nutty and flavorful filling.
• Poppy Seed Strudel⁚ Use poppy seeds, sugar, and a touch of lemon zest for a unique and aromatic strudel.

Conclusion

Croatian apple strudel is more than just a dessert; it is a cherished culinary tradition that connects generations and celebrates the beauty of Croatian cuisine. With this detailed recipe and insightful tips, you can recreate this delectable treat in your own kitchen, sharing the joy of this heartwarming dessert with loved ones. As you savor each bite of this flaky pastry and its sweet, aromatic filling, you will experience the essence of Croatian culinary heritage, a legacy passed down through generations.