Cajun-style Cheese Strudel

Ingredients

In this Cajun adaptation of sirovi štruklji, we replace the traditional Slovenian ingredients with Cajun-inspired flavors. Instead of using the original herbs and spices, we incorporate Cajun seasonings like paprika, cayenne pepper, and thyme. Additionally, we substitute the traditional cheese with sharp cheddar to add a tangy kick. Lastly, we introduce smoky andouille sausage to enhance the overall flavor profile and give it a Cajun twist. We alse have the original recipe for Sirovi štruklji, so you can check it out.

• 2 sheets of puff pastry (400g) 2 sheets of puff pastry (400g)
• 1 cup (240g) sharp cheddar cheese, grated 1 cup (240g) sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 1 cup (150g) andouille sausage, cooked and crumbled 1 cup (150g) andouille sausage, cooked and crumbled
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash) 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Nutrition

• Calories: 420 kcal / 1760 kJ
• Fat: 28g (Total), 12g (Saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 32g (Total), 2g (Sugars)
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.8g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2.
   In a bowl, combine the grated sharp cheddar cheese, cooked and crumbled andouille sausage, Cajun seasoning, paprika, cayenne pepper, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
3. 3.
   Roll out one sheet of puff pastry onto the prepared baking sheet.
4. 4.
   Spread the cheese and sausage mixture evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. 5.
   Roll up the puff pastry tightly, starting from one of the longer sides. Seal the edges by pressing them together.
6. 6.
   Repeat steps 3-5 with the second sheet of puff pastry.
7. 7.
   Brush the tops of the strudels with the beaten egg wash.
8. 8.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the strudels are golden brown and crispy.
9. 9.
   Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before slicing.
10. 10.
    Serve warm and enjoy the Cajun-inspired flavors of this delicious Cheese Strudel.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Andouille Sausage — If you can't find andouille sausage, you can substitute it with any other spicy smoked sausage, such as chorizo or kielbasa.
• Cajun Seasoning — You can either use store-bought Cajun seasoning or make your own by combining paprika, cayenne pepper, dried thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.

Tips & Tricks

• Make sure to seal the edges of the puff pastry tightly to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
• Serve the Cajun-style Cheese Strudel with a side of spicy remoulade sauce for an extra kick of flavor.
• If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper in the filling.
• Feel free to add diced bell peppers or onions to the filling for added texture and flavor.
• Leftover strudel can be reheated in the oven for a few minutes to regain its crispiness.

Serving advice

Serve the Cajun-style Cheese Strudel warm as an appetizer or as a main course accompanied by a fresh green salad.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or green onions on top of the strudel before serving. This adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.