Vegetarian Papassini Biscuits

Ingredients

The original Papassini recipe typically includes ingredients like lard and Parmesan cheese, which are not suitable for a vegetarian diet. In this adapted version, we have replaced the lard with vegetable shortening and omitted the Parmesan cheese. Additionally, we have incorporated a variety of herbs to enhance the flavor profile and create a unique vegetarian twist. We alse have the original recipe for Papassini, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 cup (60g) vegetable shortening 1/4 cup (60g) vegetable shortening
• 3/4 cup (180ml) milk (or plant-based milk for a vegan option) 3/4 cup (180ml) milk (or plant-based milk for a vegan option)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 5g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 16g, 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.4g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, dried rosemary, dried thyme, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. 3.
   Add the vegetable shortening to the dry ingredients and use your fingertips to rub it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. 4.
   Gradually pour in the milk, stirring with a fork until the dough comes together.
5. 5.
   Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently for about 1 minute until it becomes smooth.
6. 6.
   Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/2 inch (1.3cm) and use a round cookie cutter to cut out biscuits.
7. 7.
   Place the biscuits onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
8. 8.
   Remove from the oven and let the biscuits cool on a wire rack before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Vegetable shortening — Make sure the shortening is cold before incorporating it into the dough. This will help create a flaky texture in the biscuits.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle some grated vegetarian cheese on top of the biscuits before baking.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile of the biscuits.
• Serve the biscuits warm with a side of vegetarian gravy or tomato chutney for a delicious twist.

Serving advice

Serve the Vegetarian Papassini Biscuits as a side dish with soups, stews, or salads. They can also be enjoyed on their own as a tasty snack.

Presentation advice

Arrange the biscuits on a serving platter or in a bread basket, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or basil, to enhance their visual appeal.