Alberta Garlic Twist

Background and History

The Alberta Garlic Twist is a modern culinary creation that embodies the rich agricultural backdrop of Alberta, Canada. Garlic, a vital crop in Alberta's farming belt, is celebrated in this aromatic and flavorful pastry dish. Often served as an appetizer or a side dish, the Garlic Twist highlights the versatility of garlic and showcases Alberta's culinary innovation. This recipe is a delightful choice for garlic lovers and is perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or as an accompaniment to a hearty meal.

Ingredients

To make the Alberta Garlic Twist, the following ingredients are required. Click on each ingredient for more information:

• Flour - 3 cups
• Sugar – 1 tablespoon
• Yeast – 2 ¼ teaspoons
• Salt – 1 teaspoon
• Milk – 1 cup, warm
• Olive Oil – 3 tablespoons
• Garlic – 6 cloves, minced
• Butter – 4 tablespoons, melted
• Parsley – 2 tablespoons, chopped
• Parmesan Cheese – ½ cup, grated

Preparation

Begin by preparing the dough for the twist. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-7 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is active. Next, add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture and knead the dough by hand or using a stand mixer until smooth and elastic. This process should take approximately 5-10 minutes. Cover the dough and allow it to rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Filling Preparation

While the dough is rising, prepare the garlic butter filling. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and stir in the minced garlic. Sauté gently for about 2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley. Set aside to cool.

Cooking Process

Once the dough has risen, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle, about ½ inch thick. Brush the garlic butter over the surface of the dough, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Starting from one long side, roll the dough into a tight log. Cut the log lengthwise into two long pieces. Twist the two pieces together, ensuring the cut sides face up, revealing the spiral layers within.

Place the twist onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Let it rest for another 10-15 minutes. Place the twist in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. If unsure about the specific timing, check out this cooking timer guide to ensure perfect results.

Enjoying the Alberta Garlic Twist

The Alberta Garlic Twist is best enjoyed warm, straight out of the oven. It pairs exceptionally well with a side of marinara sauce for dipping or alongside a fresh garden salad. The blend of buttery garlic with a cheesy twist creates a harmonious taste experience that is rich yet balanced. This dish is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes with its intricate swirls of layered love.