Sardinhas Doces de Trancoso

Ingredients

• 250g (8.8 oz) almond flour 250g (8.8 oz) almond flour
• 200g (7 oz) powdered sugar 200g (7 oz) powdered sugar
• Zest of 1 lemon Zest of 1 lemon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 egg whites 2 egg whites
• 100g (3.5 oz) granulated sugar (for the glaze) 100g (3.5 oz) granulated sugar (for the glaze)
• Water (for the glaze) Water (for the glaze)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 0.8g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 18g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.02g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, powdered sugar, lemon zest, and ground cinnamon.
2. 2.
   Gradually add the egg whites to the mixture and knead until a smooth and pliable dough is formed.
3. 3.
   Divide the dough into small portions and shape each portion into the form of a sardine.
4. 4.
   In a separate saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and enough water to create a thick glaze.
5. 5.
   Heat the glaze over low heat until it reaches a syrupy consistency.
6. 6.
   Dip each almond paste sardine into the glaze, ensuring it is fully coated.
7. 7.
   Place the coated sardines on a wire rack to dry and harden.
8. 8.
   Once the glaze has set, the Sardinhas Doces de Trancoso are ready to be served.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Almond flour — Make sure to use finely ground almond flour for a smooth texture in the almond paste.
• Lemon zest — Use a microplane or fine grater to zest the lemon, avoiding the bitter white pith.

Tips & Tricks

• To shape the almond paste into sardines, roll a small portion into a cylinder and flatten one end to resemble the fish's body. Use a knife to create the tail and score lines to mimic scales.
• If the glaze becomes too thick, add a few drops of water to thin it out. If it becomes too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to reduce.

Serving advice

Serve the Sardinhas Doces de Trancoso on a platter or in individual paper cups to showcase their unique shape. Dust them with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Sardinhas Doces de Trancoso in a way that resembles a school of fish, with their tails pointing in different directions. Garnish the platter with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color.