Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup hazelnuts, roasted and chopped
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
Special Equipment Needed:
- Candy thermometer
- Parchment paper
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spread the hazelnuts on a baking sheet and roast for 10-15 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned. Let cool, then chop into small pieces.
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the powdered sugar and cornstarch. Add the water, honey, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat to low and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 240°F on a candy thermometer. This should take about 10-15 minutes.
4. Remove the pan from the heat and pour the mixture into the bowl of a stand mixer or a large mixing bowl if using a hand mixer. Beat on high speed for 10-15 minutes, or until the mixture is thick, glossy, and holds stiff peaks.
5. Fold in the chopped hazelnuts until evenly distributed.
6. Line a 9x13 inch baking dish with parchment paper. Pour the pastila mixture into the dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
7. Let the pastila cool at room temperature for at least 4 hours, or until firm.
8. Once the pastila is firm, use a sharp knife to cut it into small squares or rectangles.
9. Store the pastila in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Cooling time: 4 hours
Temperature:
Oven temperature: 350°F
Cooking temperature: Medium heat
Serving size:
Makes about 24 pieces
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 120
Total fat: 4g
Saturated fat: 0.5g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 30mg
Total carbohydrates: 22g
Dietary fiber: 1g
Sugars: 17g
Protein: 1g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Almonds or walnuts can be substituted for hazelnuts.
- Maple syrup or agave nectar can be substituted for honey.
- Arrowroot powder can be substituted for cornstarch.
Variations:
- Add chopped dried fruit, such as apricots or cherries, to the mixture before pouring it into the baking dish.
- Use white chocolate chips instead of cocoa powder for a sweeter flavor.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture for a warm, spicy flavor.
Tips and Tricks:
- Be sure to roast the hazelnuts before chopping them. This will bring out their flavor and make them easier to chop.
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure that the mixture reaches the correct temperature for the pastila to set properly.
- Let the pastila cool completely before cutting it into pieces. This will make it easier to cut and prevent it from sticking to the knife.
Storage Instructions:
Store the pastila in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating Instructions:
The pastila does not need to be reheated.
Presentation Ideas:
Arrange the pastila pieces on a platter and dust with powdered sugar. Serve with a cup of hot cocoa or coffee.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle chopped hazelnuts or cocoa powder on top of the pastila pieces for added texture and flavor.
Pairings:
Serve the pastila with a glass of red wine or a cup of hot tea.
Suggested Side Dishes:
The pastila can be served as a dessert on its own or with a side of fresh fruit, such as strawberries or raspberries.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the pastila does not set properly, it may not have reached the correct temperature during cooking. Use a candy thermometer to ensure that the mixture reaches 240°F.
- If the pastila is too sticky or soft, it may need to be cooked for a few minutes longer.
Food Safety Advice:
Be sure to use a clean, dry candy thermometer to prevent contamination. Store the pastila in an airtight container at room temperature to prevent spoilage.
Food History:
Pastila is a traditional Russian dessert made from fruit puree and sugar. This recipe puts a modern twist on the classic by using hazelnuts and cocoa powder.
Flavor Profiles:
The pastila has a rich, chocolatey flavor with a nutty crunch from the roasted hazelnuts.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the pastila as a sweet treat after dinner or as a snack with a cup of coffee or tea.
Related Categories
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Region: Russian
Taste: Rich, Nutty, Sweet, Chocolatey