Yunnan-style Bougatsa

Ingredients

In this Yunnan-style adaptation of Bougatsa, we incorporate Yunnan-specific ingredients and flavors to give the dish a unique twist. The custard filling is infused with Yunnan spices and herbs, such as star anise and Sichuan peppercorns, which add a subtle but distinct flavor. Additionally, we use local Yunnan pastry techniques to achieve a flakier and lighter texture in the pastry. We alse have the original recipe for Bougatsa, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup (120ml) water 1/2 cup (120ml) water
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 4 eggs 4 eggs
• 1/2 cup (100g) sugar 1/2 cup (100g) sugar
• 2 cups (480ml) milk 2 cups (480ml) milk
• 1/4 cup (30g) cornstarch 1/4 cup (30g) cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground star anise 1 teaspoon ground star anise
• 1/2 teaspoon ground Sichuan peppercorns 1/2 teaspoon ground Sichuan peppercorns
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 40g, 18g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, vegetable oil, water, and salt. Knead until a smooth dough forms. Divide the dough into two equal portions and let them rest for 30 minutes.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, milk, cornstarch, vanilla extract, ground star anise, and ground Sichuan peppercorns until well combined.
3. 3.
   Roll out one portion of the dough into a thin sheet and place it on a greased baking dish.
4. 4.
   Pour the custard filling over the dough and spread it evenly.
5. 5.
   Roll out the second portion of the dough into a thin sheet and place it on top of the custard filling, sealing the edges.
6. 6.
   Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 40-45 minutes, or until the pastry turns golden brown.
7. 7.
   Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Star anise — Use whole star anise and grind it into a fine powder using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle.
• Sichuan peppercorns — Toast the peppercorns in a dry pan over medium heat until fragrant, then grind them into a fine powder.

Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, you can substitute some of the milk with coconut milk.
• Serve the Yunnan-style Bougatsa warm for the best taste and texture.
• Dust the powdered sugar just before serving to maintain its visual appeal.
• Experiment with different Yunnan spices and herbs to customize the flavor profile.
• Enjoy the Yunnan-style Bougatsa as a breakfast treat or a delightful dessert.

Serving advice

Serve the Yunnan-style Bougatsa warm as a standalone dish or pair it with a cup of Yunnan tea for a truly authentic experience.

Presentation advice

Cut the Yunnan-style Bougatsa into individual portions and dust them with powdered sugar. Serve on a decorative plate or a traditional Yunnan-style ceramic dish to enhance the visual appeal.