Breadfruit Cheese Pie
Breadfruit Cheese Pie Recipe from Guyana
Introduction
Breadfruit Cheese Pie is a delightful and unique dish that combines the tropical flavors of breadfruit with the creamy, savory taste of cheese. This recipe is perfect for those looking to explore new culinary territories and enjoy a comforting, hearty meal. The combination of ingredients creates a dish that is both nutritious and delicious, making it a great addition to any meal.
History
The origins of Breadfruit Cheese Pie can be traced back to tropical regions where breadfruit trees are abundant. This dish is a creative adaptation of traditional recipes that utilize breadfruit as a staple ingredient. Over time, the addition of cheese and other ingredients transformed it into the savory pie we know today. It reflects the fusion of local ingredients and culinary influences from various cultures.
Ingredients
- 0.5 medium-sized breadfruit
- 0.5 lb (227 g) cheese
- 2 tbsp mustard
- 1 tbsp bread crumbs
- 2 tbsp flour
- 0.5 oz (14 g) butter
- 1.75 cup milk
- 1 egg (optional)
How to prepare
- Wash the breadfruit and cut it into lengthwise pieces.
- Peel the breadfruit and remove the core.
- Boil the breadfruit in salted water.
- Grate the cheese and grease a pie dish.
- Mix the grated cheese with milk, flour, and margarine to make a sauce.
- Once the breadfruit is cooked and cooled, cut it into small pieces.
- Pour the sauce over the breadfruit pieces.
- Stir gently to avoid breaking the breadfruit pieces.
- Pour the mixture into the pie dish.
- Mix the remaining cheese with the bread crumbs.
- Sprinkle the cheese and bread crumb mixture over the top of the pie.
- Bake in a moderate oven for approximately 15 minutes until golden brown.
Variations
- This recipe can be varied by adding different types of cheese, incorporating vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms into the sauce, or using a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
To ensure the best results when making Breadfruit Cheese Pie, consider the following tips:
- Choose a ripe but firm breadfruit for a sweet and creamy texture.
- Boil the breadfruit until it is just tender to maintain its shape in the pie.
- Grate the cheese finely to ensure it melts evenly throughout the sauce.
- Be gentle when mixing the breadfruit with the sauce to keep the pieces intact.
- Allow the pie to rest for a few minutes after baking for easier slicing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Breadfruit Cheese Pie with a side of fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a hearty lunch or dinner option.
Cooking Techniques
Boiling the breadfruit and baking the assembled pie are key techniques in this recipe. For a smoother sauce, consider blending the cheese sauce ingredients before combining them with the breadfruit.
Ingredient Substitutions
For a dairy-free version, use plant-based cheese and milk alternatives. Breadfruit can be substituted with other starchy vegetables like potatoes or sweet potatoes if unavailable.
Make Ahead Tips
The breadfruit can be boiled and the cheese sauce prepared a day in advance. Assemble and bake the pie when ready to serve for a quick and easy meal.
Presentation Ideas
Garnish the baked pie with fresh herbs such as parsley or chives for a touch of color and flavor. Serve in a decorative pie dish for an appealing presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair Breadfruit Cheese Pie with a light, crisp white wine or a refreshing tropical fruit punch. The flavors complement each other, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until thoroughly warmed.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
A serving of Breadfruit Cheese Pie contains approximately 300-400 calories, making it a satisfying meal option. The calorie content can be adjusted by modifying the amount of cheese and butter used in the recipe.
Carbohydrates
Breadfruit is a good source of carbohydrates, providing the energy needed for daily activities. In this recipe, a medium-sized breadfruit contributes approximately 60 grams of carbohydrates, making it a substantial part of the dish's energy content.
Fats
The cheese, butter, and milk in this recipe contribute to its fat content. The total fat content will vary depending on the type of cheese and milk used. Using low-fat cheese and milk can reduce the overall fat content, making the dish lighter and healthier.
Proteins
Cheese is the primary source of protein in this recipe, providing both flavor and nutritional value. The amount of protein will depend on the type of cheese used, with an average serving contributing about 20 grams of protein to the dish.
Vitamins and minerals
Breadfruit is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium. Cheese adds calcium and phosphorus, making this dish a good source of essential nutrients that support bone health and overall well-being.
Alergens
This recipe contains common allergens such as dairy (cheese, milk, butter) and gluten (flour, bread crumbs). Individuals with allergies or intolerances to these ingredients should consider suitable substitutions.
Summary
Breadfruit Cheese Pie is a nutritious dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It is a calorie-dense meal that can be adjusted to meet dietary needs and preferences.
Summary
Breadfruit Cheese Pie is a versatile and flavorful dish that offers a unique twist on traditional pie recipes. With its nutritious ingredients and satisfying taste, it is sure to become a favorite among those looking to explore new culinary delights.
How did I get this recipe?
I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Breadfruit Cheese Pie. It was many years ago, during a trip to the Caribbean with my husband. We were exploring the local markets and stumbled upon a small bakery tucked away in a bustling alleyway. The aroma of freshly baked bread filled the air, drawing us closer to the open storefront.
As we peered inside, we were greeted by a friendly elderly woman with a warm smile. She introduced herself as Mrs. Rose, the owner of the bakery and the mastermind behind all the delicious treats on display. She beckoned us to come closer and offered us a sample of her famous Breadfruit Cheese Pie.
I had never heard of such a thing before, but one bite was all it took to win me over. The creamy cheese filling paired perfectly with the slightly sweet and nutty flavor of the breadfruit, creating a unique and irresistible combination. I immediately knew that I had to learn how to make this pie for myself.
I asked Mrs. Rose if she would be willing to share her recipe with me, and to my delight, she agreed. She invited me to spend the afternoon with her in the bakery, watching and learning as she expertly crafted her signature dish.
Mrs. Rose began by showing me how to prepare the breadfruit. She explained that the key was to choose a ripe fruit with a firm texture and a slightly sweet aroma. She peeled and diced the fruit, then boiled it until it was tender and easily mashed.
Next, she taught me how to make the cheese filling. She combined cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and a splash of vanilla extract in a mixing bowl, beating the ingredients together until smooth and creamy. She then gently folded in the mashed breadfruit, creating a rich and luscious filling that would be the star of the pie.
As we assembled the pie, Mrs. Rose shared stories of her own grandmother, who had passed down the recipe to her many years ago. She spoke fondly of their time spent together in the kitchen, bonding over their shared love of baking and cooking.
Once the pie was ready, Mrs. Rose brushed the top with a generous amount of melted butter and sprinkled it with a mixture of sugar and cinnamon. She popped it into the oven, and as we waited for it to bake, the sweet aroma of the pie filled the bakery once again.
When the pie was finally done, Mrs. Rose pulled it out of the oven, the golden crust glistening in the soft afternoon light. She cut a generous slice and handed it to me with a smile, inviting me to taste the fruits of our labor.
The first bite was pure bliss – the creamy cheese filling melted in my mouth, while the nutty breadfruit added a delightful crunch to every bite. The flavors danced on my tongue, a symphony of sweet and savory that I had never experienced before.
As I savored the last bite of pie, I knew that this recipe would become a treasured favorite in my own kitchen. I thanked Mrs. Rose profusely for her generosity and guidance, promising to carry on the tradition of Breadfruit Cheese Pie in my own family for generations to come.
And true to my word, I have shared this recipe with my children and grandchildren, passing down not only the ingredients and techniques, but also the love and passion that Mrs. Rose instilled in me that day in her bakery. Every time we bake a Breadfruit Cheese Pie together, we are transported back to that magical afternoon in the Caribbean, surrounded by the love and warmth of a shared culinary tradition.
Categories
| Breadfruit Recipes | Cheese Recipes | Guyanese Desserts | Guyanese Recipes | Mustard Seed Recipes |