Rwandan-style Strawberry Ears

Ingredients

In this Rwandan adaptation of Štramberské uši, we infuse the traditional Czech dessert with the vibrant flavors of Rwandan cuisine. While the original recipe uses a simple fruit filling, we enhance the strawberry flavor with aromatic spices like cinnamon and cloves, commonly found in Rwandan dishes. Additionally, we shape the pastry dough into ears, symbolizing the importance of listening in Rwandan culture. These modifications give the dish a unique twist and create a delightful fusion of Czech and Rwandan culinary traditions. We alse have the original recipe for Štramberské uši, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (100g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 1/2 cup (100g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (120ml) cold water 1/2 cup (120ml) cold water
• 2 cups (300g) fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced 2 cups (300g) fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 280 kcal / 1172 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 7g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 39g, 14g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and use your fingertips to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. 2.
   Gradually add the cold water, a little at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. Shape the dough into a ball, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, cloves, and lemon juice. Mix well until the strawberries are coated evenly. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. 4.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. 5.
   On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Use a round cookie cutter or a glass to cut out circles from the dough.
6. 6.
   Place a spoonful of the strawberry filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the circle in half, pinching the edges together to seal and create the shape of an ear.
7. 7.
   Transfer the filled pastry ears to the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. 8.
   Remove from the oven and let the pastries cool on a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Strawberries — Choose ripe and juicy strawberries for the best flavor. Make sure to hull and slice them before using in the filling.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the strawberry filling.
• Serve the pastries warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures.
• If you prefer a sweeter filling, increase the amount of sugar in the strawberry mixture.
• Experiment with different fruit fillings such as raspberries or peaches for a variety of flavors.
• Dust the pastries with powdered sugar just before serving to add a touch of elegance.

Serving advice

Serve the Rwandan-style Strawberry Ears as a delightful dessert after a traditional Rwandan meal. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamy and refreshing combination.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Strawberry Ears on a decorative platter and dust them with a generous amount of powdered sugar. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint for a pop of color. The vibrant red color of the strawberries against the golden pastry will create an eye-catching presentation.