North African Apple Pastry

Ingredients

In this North African adaptation, the traditional Apfelstrudel is infused with the aromatic spices commonly found in North African cuisine, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom. These spices add a warm and exotic flavor profile to the dish, giving it a unique twist that sets it apart from the original Austrian version. We alse have the original recipe for Apfelstrudel, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (120ml) warm water 1/2 cup (120ml) warm water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 medium apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced 4 medium apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat: 15g (Saturated Fat: 7g)
• Carbohydrates: 45g (Sugars: 25g)
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add the warm water and olive oil, mixing until a smooth dough forms. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes, until it becomes elastic. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. 2.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom. Toss until the apples are evenly coated with the spices.
4. 4.
   On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a thin rectangle. Brush the melted butter over the entire surface of the dough.
5. 5.
   Spread the spiced apple mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Carefully roll the dough into a log, tucking in the edges as you go.
6. 6.
   Transfer the rolled pastry onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the top with melted butter.
7. 7.
   Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crispy.
8. 8.
   Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Apples — Choose firm and slightly tart apples such as Granny Smith or Braeburn for the best texture and flavor in the pastry.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, add a handful of raisins or chopped dates to the spiced apple mixture.
• Serve the North African Apple Pastry warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures.
• If you prefer a more savory twist, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds on top of the pastry before baking.
• Experiment with different spices such as ginger or cloves to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
• Leftovers can be reheated in the oven for a few minutes to regain their crispiness.

Serving advice

Serve the North African Apple Pastry as a dessert after a delicious North African-inspired meal. Cut it into slices and present it on a decorative platter. Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with a sprig of fresh mint for an elegant touch.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, drizzle a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and lemon juice over the pastry just before serving. This will add a glossy finish and a tangy sweetness to the dessert.