Pineapple Puff Pastry Delights with a Cinnamon Twist

  • Puff Pastry: 500 g (store-bought or homemade)
  • Canned Pineapple: 500 g, drained and chopped
  • Sugar: 3 tablespoons
  • Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon
  • Egg: 1 (separate yolk and white)
  • Pomegranate Seeds: Optional, for garnish

For the Accompanying Tea:

  • Black Loose Leaf Tea: 2 teaspoons
  • Ginger: A small piece, sliced
  • Apple: 1, sliced
  • Sugar: To taste

Directions

1. Prepare the Pineapple Filling:

  • Drain the canned pineapple and chop it into small pieces.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the pineapple with 3 tablespoons of sugar and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Mix well and set aside.

2. Prepare the Puff Pastry:

  • Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
  • Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut it into squares or rectangles, depending on your preferred size.

3. Assemble the Pastries:

  • Place a spoonful of the pineapple filling in the center of each puff pastry piece.
  • Fold the pastry over the filling to create a triangle or rectangle, sealing the edges by pressing with a fork.
  • Brush the tops with beaten egg yolk for a golden finish.

4. Bake the Pastries:

  • Line a baking tray with parchment paper and place the pastries on it.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.

5. Prepare the Tea:

  • In a teapot or saucepan, combine black tea leaves, sliced ginger, apple slices, and sugar to taste.
  • Add boiling water and let it steep for 5-7 minutes. Strain before serving.

6. Serve:

  • Once the pastries are baked, let them cool slightly. Garnish with pomegranate seeds for an extra pop of color and flavor.
  • Serve with the warm spiced tea.

Serving Suggestions

  • Dust the pastries with powdered sugar for a festive touch.
  • Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
  • Pair with vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
  • Add chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the filling for extra texture.
  • Enjoy warm with a cup of coffee or chai tea for a cozy snack.

Cooking Tips

  • Ensure the puff pastry is cold before baking to achieve maximum flakiness.
  • Use fresh pineapple for a tangier flavor, but cook it slightly with sugar and cinnamon before filling.
  • Brush the edges with egg white before sealing for a stronger seal.
  • For a savory twist, skip the sugar and cinnamon, and add cheese to the pineapple filling.
  • Always use a sharp knife or pastry cutter for clean cuts.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Pineapple: High in vitamin C and antioxidants.
  • Cinnamon: Known for its anti-inflammatory and blood sugar-regulating properties.
  • Pomegranate Seeds: Packed with antioxidants and vitamins.

Dietary Information

  • Vegetarian-Friendly: Contains no meat or fish.
  • Customizable: Can be made vegan by substituting egg wash with plant-based milk.