Palatine Iris Delight

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional Italian Iris is transformed into a Palatine delight by incorporating the distinct flavors and ingredients of Palatine cuisine. The original Italian version typically features a chocolate and hazelnut filling, while the Palatine Iris Delight highlights the flavors of almonds and citrus. This adaptation also embraces the Palatine tradition of using powdered sugar as a finishing touch, adding an extra layer of sweetness and elegance to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Iris (Sicily), so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (100g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 1/2 cup (100g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup (120ml) fresh orange juice 1/2 cup (120ml) fresh orange juice
• 1/4 cup (60ml) fresh lemon juice 1/4 cup (60ml) fresh lemon juice
• Zest of 1 orange Zest of 1 orange
• Zest of 1 lemon Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 cup (100g) ground almonds 1 cup (100g) ground almonds
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons (30g) cornstarch 2 tablespoons (30g) cornstarch
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 8g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 36g, 16g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cold butter, and granulated sugar. Use your fingertips to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
2. 2.
   Add one egg to the mixture and mix until the dough comes together. Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
4. 4.
   Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch tart pan. Press the dough into the pan, trimming any excess.
5. 5.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the orange juice, lemon juice, orange zest, lemon zest, ground almonds, granulated sugar, and cornstarch until well combined.
6. 6.
   Pour the almond and citrus mixture into the prepared tart shell.
7. 7.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and the pastry is golden brown.
8. 8.
   Remove from the oven and let it cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Almonds — Make sure to use ground almonds for a smooth and creamy filling. If you can't find ground almonds, you can grind whole almonds in a food processor until finely ground.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra citrusy flavor, you can add a splash of orange blossom water to the filling.
• If you prefer a sweeter filling, you can increase the amount of granulated sugar in the almond and citrus mixture.
• Serve the Palatine Iris Delight chilled for a refreshing dessert experience.

Serving advice

Serve each slice of Palatine Iris Delight on a dessert plate, dusted with an additional sprinkle of powdered sugar. Accompany it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla gelato for a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, garnish each slice with a thin strip of orange zest or a sprinkle of finely chopped almonds. Serve on a decorative dessert plate to showcase the vibrant colors of the dish.