Jose's Pascualina
Jose's Pascualina Recipe: A Delicious Uruguayan Spinach Pie
Introduction
Jose's Pascualina is a delicious and savory spinach pie that is perfect for a hearty meal. This recipe combines the goodness of spinach, eggs, and cheese in a flaky puff pastry crust.
History
Pascualina is a traditional dish from Uruguay and Argentina, where it is typically served as a main course. It is said to have originated in the early 20th century and has since become a popular dish in South American cuisine.
Ingredients
- 5 eggs
- 500 g of frozen (or fresh) spinach
- 2 frozen sheets of puff pastry
- 1 onion
- 3 garlic cloves (you can use more if you really love garlic)
- olive oil (Spanish of course)
- 4 or 5 slices of cheddar cheese
- bread crumbs
How to prepare
- Defrost the spinach in the microwave oven for 10 minutes on high.
- Meanwhile, thinly slice the onion and fry it with olive oil and garlic in a hot frying pan until it becomes fragrant (just before it starts to burn).
- Add the defrosted spinach to the frying pan.
- Mix in one egg and 2 tbsp of bread crumbs.
- Cook on high for 3 to 4 minutes.
- Line the inside of a round baking tray (20 cm diameter) with non-stick baking paper.
- Place one sheet of puff pastry on the tray and spread the spinach mixture on top.
- Crack the remaining eggs and place them on top of the mixture.
- Finally, add the cheese slices on top of the eggs.
- Cover with the second sheet of puff pastry.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 220°C for 35 minutes.
Variations
- Add cooked bacon or ham for a meatier version.
- Substitute the cheddar cheese with mozzarella or feta for a different flavor profile.
- Add a sprinkle of nutmeg or paprika for extra seasoning.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to thoroughly defrost the spinach before cooking to ensure that it cooks evenly.
- Be careful not to overcook the onions and garlic, as they can easily burn and become bitter.
- Use high-quality Spanish olive oil for an authentic flavor.
- Allow the pie to cool slightly before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Jose's Pascualina with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Cooking Techniques
Be sure to preheat the oven before baking the pie to ensure even cooking.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the puff pastry for a clean and neat presentation.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use fresh spinach instead of frozen for a brighter color and fresher taste.
- Substitute the puff pastry with phyllo dough for a lighter crust.
Make Ahead Tips
Jose's Pascualina can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake. Simply cover with plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Jose's Pascualina on a platter garnished with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for an elegant presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair Jose's Pascualina with a glass of Malbec or Sauvignon Blanc for a perfect meal.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers of Jose's Pascualina in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 180°C for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Jose's Pascualina contains approximately 350 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Jose's Pascualina contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Jose's Pascualina contains approximately 20 grams of fats.
Proteins
Each serving of Jose's Pascualina contains approximately 15 grams of proteins.
Vitamins and minerals
Jose's Pascualina is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and calcium.
Alergens
This recipe contains eggs, wheat, and dairy (cheese), which may be allergens for some individuals.
Summary
Jose's Pascualina is a nutritious and filling dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.
Summary
Jose's Pascualina is a delicious and satisfying spinach pie that is perfect for a family meal or special occasion. With its flaky puff pastry crust and savory filling, it is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
How did I get this recipe?
I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Jose's Pascualina. It was many years ago when I was traveling through the beautiful countryside of Argentina. I had stopped in a small, quaint village to rest and refuel before continuing on my journey. As I wandered through the streets, taking in the sights and sounds of this charming little town, I stumbled upon a bustling outdoor market.
The market was a feast for the senses, with stalls filled with colorful fruits and vegetables, freshly baked bread, and an array of spices and herbs. The air was filled with the enticing aromas of grilled meats and savory empanadas. I couldn't resist the temptation to sample some of the delicious treats being cooked up by the local vendors.
One stall in particular caught my eye. It was run by a kind, elderly man named Jose. He was busy preparing a traditional Argentine dish called Pascualina. The dish was a savory pie made with layers of flaky pastry, spinach, eggs, and cheese. The aroma wafting from Jose's stall was irresistible, and I knew I had to try a slice.
As I took my first bite of the Pascualina, I was transported to culinary heaven. The flavors were rich and complex, the pastry was perfectly crisp, and the filling was creamy and delicious. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this incredible dish myself.
I struck up a conversation with Jose and asked him about the recipe for his Pascualina. He smiled warmly and invited me to watch as he prepared another batch. As he worked, he shared stories of his family and the history of the dish, passed down through generations. I listened intently, taking mental notes of each step and ingredient.
After spending the afternoon with Jose, learning the secrets of his Pascualina, I bid him farewell and continued on my journey. But I carried with me not only the memory of that delicious meal, but also the knowledge of how to recreate it in my own kitchen.
Back home, I set to work experimenting with the recipe, tweaking and adjusting until I had perfected my own version of Jose's Pascualina. I shared the dish with my family and friends, who all raved about its delicious flavors and flaky crust. I was thrilled to have discovered such a gem of a recipe, and I knew it would become a staple in my culinary repertoire.
Over the years, I have continued to make Jose's Pascualina, each time with a sense of nostalgia for that sunny day in the Argentine village. The dish has become a beloved tradition in my family, enjoyed at special gatherings and celebrations. And every time I take a bite of that savory pie, I am transported back to that bustling market, watching Jose work his magic in the kitchen.
I am grateful for the opportunity to have learned such a wonderful recipe from a kind stranger in a far-off land. It is a reminder of the power of food to connect us, to bring us together in shared joy and appreciation. And I will always cherish the memory of the day I stumbled upon Jose's Pascualina, a culinary treasure that has brought so much happiness to my life.
Categories
| Cheddar Recipes | Egg Recipes | Puff Pastry Recipes | Spinach Recipes | Uruguayan Appetizers | Uruguayan Recipes |