Yunnan-style Savoiardi

Ingredients

In this Yunnan-style adaptation of Savoiardi, the traditional Italian flavors are replaced with Yunnan-specific ingredients. The original recipe's use of vanilla extract is substituted with Pu-erh tea, which adds a unique earthy flavor. Yunnan honey is used instead of sugar, providing a subtle sweetness. Additionally, the biscuits are infused with citrus and floral notes, reminiscent of Yunnan's aromatic cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Savoiardi, so you can check it out.

• 4 eggs 4 eggs
• 100g (3.5oz) Yunnan honey 100g (3.5oz) Yunnan honey
• 100g (3.5oz) all-purpose flour 100g (3.5oz) all-purpose flour
• 50g (1.8oz) cornstarch 50g (1.8oz) cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon Pu-erh tea leaves, finely ground 1 teaspoon Pu-erh tea leaves, finely ground
• Zest of 1 Yunnan orange Zest of 1 Yunnan orange
• Zest of 1 Yunnan lemon Zest of 1 Yunnan lemon
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• Pinch of salt Pinch of salt
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 150 kcal / 628 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 3g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 28g, 12g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.1g

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, beat the eggs and Yunnan honey together until well combined.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, ground Pu-erh tea leaves, Yunnan orange zest, Yunnan lemon zest, baking powder, and salt.
4. 4.
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture, stirring until a smooth batter forms.
5. 5.
   Transfer the batter to a piping bag fitted with a large round tip.
6. 6.
   Pipe the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, forming finger-shaped biscuits approximately 10cm (4 inches) long.
7. 7.
   Dust the biscuits with powdered sugar and let them rest for 10 minutes.
8. 8.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and firm to the touch.
9. 9.
   Remove from the oven and let the biscuits cool completely on a wire rack.
10. 10.
    Once cooled, store in an airtight container until ready to serve.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Yunnan honey — Use high-quality Yunnan honey for the best flavor. If unavailable, substitute with a mild-flavored honey.
• Pu-erh tea leaves — Grind the tea leaves finely to ensure even distribution of flavor throughout the biscuits.
• Yunnan orange and lemon zest — Use organic oranges and lemons for the zest to avoid any bitterness from pesticides.

Tips & Tricks

• For a stronger tea flavor, steep the Pu-erh tea leaves in hot water for a few minutes before grinding them.
• Dust the biscuits with powdered sugar just before serving to enhance their appearance.
• Serve the Yunnan-style Savoiardi with a cup of Yunnan black tea or Pu-erh tea for an authentic experience.
• Store the biscuits in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.
• Experiment with different citrus fruits, such as Yunnan tangerines or pomelos, for a variation in flavor.

Serving advice

Serve the Yunnan-style Savoiardi as a delightful accompaniment to afternoon tea or as a light dessert. They pair perfectly with a hot cup of Yunnan tea, allowing you to savor the unique flavors of Yunnan cuisine.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Yunnan-style Savoiardi on a platter, dusted with powdered sugar, and garnish with fresh Yunnan orange or lemon zest for an elegant presentation. Serve them alongside a teapot and teacups to create a visually appealing tea-time spread.