French Guianese Chinese Cake

French Guianese Chinese Cake Recipe - Authentic Recipe from France

Region / culture: France | Preparation time: overnight | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 10

Introduction

French Guianese Chinese Cake is a unique and delicious dessert that combines Chinese and French Guianese flavors. This cake is made with black eye beans, brown sugar, and pastry, creating a sweet and savory treat that is perfect for any occasion.

History

French Guianese Chinese Cake has its roots in the fusion of Chinese and French Guianese cuisine. The use of black eye beans in this cake is a nod to the Chinese influence, while the brown sugar and pastry reflect the French Guianese culinary traditions. This recipe has been passed down through generations and is a popular dessert in French Guiana.

Ingredients

400 g black eye beans
3 cups brown sugar
red food coloring
3 tbsp vanilla
2 eggs
pastry

How to prepare

Soak black eye beans overnight.
Pressure cook the beans with water for 10 minutes.
Drain off most of the water and transfer to a blender or food processor.
Put the blended beans in a pot with brown sugar and cook until it thickens.
Add a few drops of food coloring to achieve a dark color.
Add vanilla extract and let it cool.
Meanwhile, prepare the pastry.
Roll out the pastry and cut it into 5-inch circles.
Use two circles for each cake.
Place a tablespoon of bean filling in the center of each circle, then bring the sides up together and twist to close, forming a round ball.
Repeat this process until all the cakes are done.
Place the cakes in a pan and brush them with beaten eggs.
Using your finger, place a drop of food coloring in the middle of each Chinese cake.
Bake the cakes at 400°F (204°C) until they turn brown.

Variations

Add chopped nuts or dried fruits to the bean filling for added texture and flavor.
Use different food coloring to create cakes in various colors.
Experiment with different pastry dough recipes for a unique twist on this traditional dessert.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Soaking the black eye beans overnight helps to soften them and reduce cooking time.

- Adding a few drops of red food coloring gives the cakes a traditional dark color.

- Brushing the cakes with beaten eggs before baking helps to give them a shiny finish.

- Be sure to twist the pastry dough tightly to ensure the filling stays inside the cakes during baking.

Serving Suggestions

French Guianese Chinese Cake is best served warm with a cup of tea or coffee. It can also be enjoyed as a snack or dessert on its own.

Cooking Techniques

Pressure cooking the black eye beans helps to soften them quickly.

- Blending the beans with brown sugar creates a smooth and creamy filling.

- Baking the cakes at a high temperature ensures they cook through and develop a golden brown crust.

Ingredient Substitutions

If black eye beans are not available, you can use red beans or black beans as a substitute.

- Brown sugar can be replaced with white sugar or palm sugar for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

French Guianese Chinese Cake can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve French Guianese Chinese Cake on a platter lined with banana leaves for an authentic touch. Dust with powdered sugar before serving for a decorative finish.

Pairing Recommendations

French Guianese Chinese Cake pairs well with a cup of jasmine tea or a glass of sweet dessert wine. It can also be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover French Guianese Chinese Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of French Guianese Chinese Cake contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of French Guianese Chinese Cake contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of French Guianese Chinese Cake contains approximately 5 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of French Guianese Chinese Cake contains approximately 7 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

French Guianese Chinese Cake is a good source of iron and folate, thanks to the black eye beans used in the recipe.

Alergens

French Guianese Chinese Cake contains eggs and wheat (in the pastry), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

French Guianese Chinese Cake is a moderately high-carb dessert with a moderate amount of fats and proteins. It is a good source of iron and folate.

Summary

French Guianese Chinese Cake is a unique and flavorful dessert that combines Chinese and French Guianese influences. With a sweet bean filling encased in flaky pastry, this cake is a delicious treat that is sure to impress your guests. Enjoy this dessert warm with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful culinary experience.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of excitement. It was given to me by a dear friend who had traveled to French Guiana and had the opportunity to taste this unique and delicious cake. I was immediately intrigued by the combination of Chinese and French influences in this dessert, and I knew I had to learn how to make it.

My friend described to me how the cake was light and airy, with a delicate crumb and a subtle sweetness that was perfectly balanced by the tangy citrus glaze that topped it. She also mentioned that the cake was traditionally made for special occasions, such as birthdays or weddings, and was a favorite among the locals in French Guiana.

I couldn't wait to try my hand at making this cake, so I gathered all the necessary ingredients and set to work in my kitchen. The recipe called for flour, sugar, eggs, butter, milk, and a few other basic ingredients, as well as some Chinese five spice powder and grated orange zest for flavor.

As I mixed the batter and poured it into the cake pan, the scent of the spices and citrus filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation. I carefully placed the pan into the oven and waited patiently for the cake to bake, the aromas wafting through the house and creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

When the cake was finally done, I removed it from the oven and let it cool before drizzling the tangy citrus glaze over the top. The glaze seeped into the cake, adding an extra layer of flavor and moisture that made it all the more irresistible.

I couldn't wait to taste the final product, so I cut myself a slice and took a bite. The cake was everything my friend had described and more – light and fluffy, with a hint of spice and a burst of citrus that danced on my taste buds. It was a perfect balance of sweet and tart, and I knew right then and there that this recipe would become a staple in my kitchen.

Over the years, I have made the French Guianese Chinese Cake countless times, each time perfecting my technique and adjusting the flavors to suit my own preferences. I have shared the recipe with family and friends, who have all fallen in love with this unique and delicious dessert.

I often think back to that first time I saw the recipe and the sense of excitement that it sparked in me. I am grateful to my friend for introducing me to this wonderful cake, and for inspiring me to explore new flavors and techniques in my cooking.

Now, whenever I make the French Guianese Chinese Cake, I am transported back to that moment of discovery and excitement, and I am reminded of the joy that comes from sharing good food with the ones we love. Cooking is not just about following a recipe – it is about creating memories and building connections, one delicious bite at a time. And for that, I am truly grateful.