Turkmen Tea Delight

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the British High Tea is transformed into a Turkmen delight by incorporating traditional Turkmen ingredients and flavors. The pastries are made with a flaky dough and filled with Turkmen-inspired fillings such as minced lamb, pumpkin, and apricot. The tea is infused with saffron, a highly valued spice in Turkmen cuisine, giving it a distinct aroma and flavor. We alse have the original recipe for High Tea, so you can check it out.

• For the pastries: For the pastries:
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/2 cup (120ml) cold water 1/2 cup (120ml) cold water
• Filling options: minced lamb, pumpkin, apricot, etc. Filling options: minced lamb, pumpkin, apricot, etc.
• For the tea: For the tea:
• 4 cups (950ml) water 4 cups (950ml) water
• 4 teaspoons black tea leaves 4 teaspoons black tea leaves
• 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads
• 4 cardamom pods, lightly crushed 4 cardamom pods, lightly crushed
• Sugar, to taste Sugar, to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): N/A (varies based on fillings)
• Fat (total, saturated): N/A (varies based on fillings)
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): N/A (varies based on fillings)
• Protein: N/A (varies based on fillings)
• Fiber: N/A (varies based on fillings)
• Salt: N/A (varies based on fillings)

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt for the pastries. Add the cold, cubed butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. 2.
   Gradually add the cold water to the flour mixture, mixing until the dough comes together. Knead the dough lightly until smooth, then cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut into small circles or squares. Fill each pastry with your choice of minced lamb, pumpkin, apricot, or other fillings.
4. 4.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the pastries for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
5. 5.
6. 6.
   Meanwhile, prepare the tea by bringing water to a boil in a saucepan. Add the black tea leaves, saffron threads, and crushed cardamom pods. Let it simmer for 5 minutes, then remove from heat and strain.
7. 7.
   Serve the Turkmen Tea Delight pastries alongside the fragrant saffron-infused tea. Add sugar to taste.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Saffron — To enhance the flavor and aroma of saffron, soak the threads in a tablespoon of warm water for 10 minutes before adding them to the tea.

Tips & Tricks

• Experiment with different fillings such as minced beef, spinach, or cheese to create a variety of flavors.
• Serve the pastries warm for a more enjoyable experience.
• If you prefer a stronger tea flavor, steep the tea leaves for a longer duration.

Serving advice

Serve the Turkmen Tea Delight pastries alongside a steaming cup of saffron-infused tea. Arrange the pastries on a decorative platter and garnish with fresh herbs or edible flowers for an elegant presentation.

Presentation advice

To enhance the visual appeal, serve the pastries on a traditional Turkmen ceramic plate or a beautifully patterned tray. Pair it with delicate tea cups and saucers to create an authentic Turkmen tea experience.