Micronesian Lörtsy

Ingredients

In this Micronesian adaptation of Lörtsy, the traditional Finnish meat filling is replaced with a combination of fresh seafood, such as shrimp and fish. The flavors are enhanced with the addition of coconut milk, which adds a creamy and tropical element to the dish. The spices used in the filling are also influenced by Micronesian cuisine, incorporating flavors like ginger, lemongrass, and chili peppers. We alse have the original recipe for Lörtsy, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) 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
• 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk
• 1/2 pound (225g) fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined 1/2 pound (225g) fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 pound (225g) white fish fillets, cut into small pieces 1/2 pound (225g) white fish fillets, cut into small pieces
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 1 stalk lemongrass, finely chopped 1 stalk lemongrass, finely chopped
• 1 red chili pepper, seeded and finely chopped 1 red chili pepper, seeded and finely chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying Vegetable oil for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1885 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 15g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 40g, 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold butter and use your fingers to rub it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. 2.
   Gradually add the cold water, mixing until the dough comes together. Knead the dough lightly until smooth, then cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   In a skillet, heat a small amount of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, ginger, lemongrass, and chili pepper. Sauté until fragrant.
4. 4.
   Add the shrimp and fish to the skillet and cook until they are opaque and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. 5.
   Pour in the coconut milk and simmer for a few minutes until the flavors meld together. Remove from heat and let the filling cool.
6. 6.
   Preheat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 180°C (350°F).
7. 7.
   On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut out circles using a round cookie cutter or a glass.
8. 8.
   Place a spoonful of the seafood filling onto one half of each dough circle. Fold the other half over the filling and press the edges together to seal.
9. 9.
   Fry the lörtsy in the preheated oil until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
10. 10.
    Serve the Micronesian Lörtsy warm and enjoy the tropical flavors!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Shrimp — Make sure to devein the shrimp before using them in the filling to remove any grit or sand.
• Lemongrass — To release the flavor, bruise the lemongrass stalk with the back of a knife before chopping it finely.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a spicier filling, you can add more chili peppers or even include some diced jalapenos.
• Serve the Micronesian Lörtsy with a side of tropical fruit salsa for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
• If you don't have lemongrass, you can substitute it with a teaspoon of grated lemon zest for a similar citrusy note in the filling.
• Experiment with different types of seafood, such as crab or lobster, to create your own unique variation of Micronesian Lörtsy.
• For a healthier alternative, you can bake the lörtsy instead of frying them. Brush them with a little oil and bake at 200°C (400°F) for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Serving advice

Serve the Micronesian Lörtsy as a main dish accompanied by a fresh green salad. Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley for added freshness.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Micronesian Lörtsy on a platter, showcasing their golden brown crust. Sprinkle some toasted coconut flakes on top for an extra tropical touch. Serve with a wedge of lime for squeezing over the lörtsy before enjoying.