Sichuan-style Spicy Paški Baškotin

Ingredients

In this Sichuan-inspired adaptation, the traditional Paški baškotin is transformed by incorporating Sichuan peppercorns and chili peppers. These additions infuse the pastry with a numbing and spicy flavor profile, creating a unique fusion dish that combines the best of Croatian and Sichuan cuisines. We alse have the original recipe for Paški baškotin, so you can check it out.

• 200g (7 oz) almond flour 200g (7 oz) almond flour
• 100g (3.5 oz) all-purpose flour 100g (3.5 oz) all-purpose flour
• 150g (5.3 oz) granulated sugar 150g (5.3 oz) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns, crushed 1 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns, crushed
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes 1 teaspoon chili flakes
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 100g (3.5 oz) unsalted butter, softened 100g (3.5 oz) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg 1 large egg

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 16g, 10g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, crushed Sichuan peppercorns, chili flakes, salt, and baking powder.
3. 3.
   Add the softened butter to the dry ingredients and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. 4.
   Beat the egg in a separate bowl and add it to the mixture. Mix until the dough comes together.
5. 5.
   Shape the dough into small balls, approximately 2-3 cm (1 inch) in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
6. 6.
   Flatten each ball slightly with the palm of your hand.
7. 7.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the baškotin turn golden brown.
8. 8.
   Remove from the oven and let them cool completely before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Almond flour — Ensure that the almond flour is finely ground for a smooth texture in the baškotin.
• Sichuan peppercorns — Crush the peppercorns just before using to preserve their aromatic oils and numbing effect.
• Chili flakes — Adjust the amount of chili flakes according to your spice tolerance.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of heat, add a pinch of ground Sichuan chili powder to the dough.
• Serve the Spicy Paški Baškotin with a cooling yogurt dip to balance the spiciness.
• Experiment with different types of nuts, such as cashews or pistachios, for a unique twist on the traditional recipe.
• Store the baškotin in an airtight container to maintain their crispness.
• These spicy biscuits make a great accompaniment to a cup of hot tea or coffee.

Serving advice

Serve the Sichuan-style Spicy Paški Baškotin as a delightful snack or dessert. Arrange them on a platter and garnish with a sprinkle of crushed Sichuan peppercorns and chili flakes for an extra touch of visual appeal.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, serve the Spicy Paški Baškotin on a wooden board or a traditional Sichuan-style plate. Add a small dish of Sichuan peppercorns and chili flakes on the side for guests to customize the level of spiciness according to their preference.