Casablanca Fromage Pastry

The Casablanca Fromage Pastry is a delightful fusion of French and Moroccan culinary traditions, known for its rich flavors and flaky texture. This dish beautifully encapsulates the cultural crossroads of Casablanca, boasting a luxurious cheese filling that is lovingly embraced by layers of crisp pastry. With roots tracing back to the French colonial presence in Morocco, this pastry has evolved, integrating Moroccan spices and local cheeses to create a unique gastronomic experience.

History of Casablanca Fromage Pastry

In the early 20th century, Casablanca was a vibrant hub, attracting people from diverse backgrounds, including French expatriates who brought with them the techniques and traditions of French patisserie. The fusion of these French culinary skills with indigenous Moroccan ingredients gave birth to an array of pastries that blended the best of both worlds. Over time, the Casablanca Fromage Pastry became a symbol of this cultural blend, celebrated for its creamy cheese filling and buttery pastry crust, often enjoyed with a refreshing mint tea.

Ingredients

• Puff Pastry Sheets (2 sheets)
• Ricotta Cheese (1 cup)
• Feta Cheese (1/2 cup, crumbled)
• Olive Oil (1 tbsp)
• Egg (1 large, beaten)
• Chopped Fresh Parsley (2 tbsp)
• Ground Cumin (1/2 tsp)
• Ground Nutmeg (1/4 tsp)
• Salt (to taste)
• Black Pepper (to taste)

Preparation

Preparing the Filling

Start by preparing the filling that will be the heart of your Casablanca Fromage Pastry. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese and feta cheese. Add one tablespoon of olive oil, which will enrich the filling's flavor. Beat an egg, and mix it into the cheese blend, ensuring the mixture is creamy and well-incorporated. Add chopped fresh parsley, ground cumin, and a pinch of nutmeg to infuse the filling with a hint of warmth and aromatic depth. Taste the mixture and season with salt and black pepper according to your preference.

Preparing the Puff Pastry

Puff pastry sheets form the crispy outer layer of the Casablanca Fromage Pastry. If using frozen pastry, make sure to thaw them thoroughly as per package instructions. On a lightly floured surface, gently roll out each sheet to remove any creases and achieve a uniform thickness, keeping in mind not to stretch the pastry too thin as it needs to support the weight of the filling.

Assembly

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). On a clean surface, lay one puff pastry sheet. Spread the cheese filling evenly across the pastry, leaving about half an inch border around the edges. Brush the edges with beaten egg to help seal the pastry.

Carefully place the second puff pastry sheet over the filling, pressing the edges together to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges, ensuring the filling doesn't leak during baking. Brush the top with the remaining beaten egg to promote a golden, shiny finish.

Cooking Process

Place the assembled pastry on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Using a sharp knife, make a few slits on top of the pastry to allow steam to escape, preventing it from becoming soggy.

Transfer the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown. Keep an eye on it during the final minutes to avoid over-browning.

If you're unsure about the cooking time, set a timer to remind you to check the pastry periodically.

How to Enjoy the Casablanca Fromage Pastry

The Casablanca Fromage Pastry is best enjoyed hot, straight out of the oven, enabling the creamy cheese filling to melt in your mouth with each bite. Serve it as an appetizer, a side dish, or a wonderful addition to your brunch table. Pair it with a glass of Moroccan mint tea to enhance its flavors and complete the cultural experience.

This pastry also pairs well with a crisp salad, like a Mediterranean cucumber and tomato mix, complementing its richness with fresh, tangy notes. For those who prefer wine, a chilled glass of Chardonnay beautifully accompanies this pastry, harmonizing with its buttery crust and cheesy essence.