Kingston Strudel

Background of Kingston Strudel

The Kingston Strudel is a delightful twist on the traditional strudel, infusing the tropical flavors of Jamaica into a classic Eastern European dessert. This fusion dish merges the buttery, flaky pastry that strudel is known for with the rich, aromatic spices and fruits found throughout Jamaican cuisine. Originally a food tradition of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, the strudel made its way into Jamaican kitchens through cultural exchanges during the colonial era. Over time, local ingredients like rum, mangoes, and spices transformed the dish into what we now call the Kingston Strudel.

Ingredients for Kingston Strudel

• Flour - 2 cups
• Sugar - 1/4 cup
• Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
• Butter - 1/2 cup (cold and cubed)
• Water - 1/2 cup (cold)
• Mango - 2, ripe and sliced
• Pineapple - 1 cup, diced
• Raisins - 1/2 cup
• Rum - 1/4 cup
• Ginger - 1 tablespoon (grated)
• Cinnamon - 1 teaspoon
• Nutmeg - 1/4 teaspoon
• Egg - 1 (beaten for egg wash)
• Powdered sugar - For dusting

Preparation

Preparing the Dough

1. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture, using a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add the cold water, mixing just until the dough holds together.
4. Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to chill.

Preparing the Filling

1. Soak the raisins in rum for about 30 minutes to allow them to plump.
2. In a medium bowl, combine sliced mango, diced pineapple, plumped raisins with ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well to combine.

The Complete Cooking Process

Assembling the Strudel

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a rectangle about 1/8 inch thick.
3. Spread the fruit mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border all around.
4. Starting at one long side, carefully roll the dough into a tight log, sealing the edges and ends.

Baking the Strudel

1. Place the strudel log seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Brush the top with beaten egg to create a glossy finish.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and cooked through. Use a cooking timer to track your time.

How to Enjoy Kingston Strudel

To enjoy your freshly baked Kingston Strudel, allow it to cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Dust generously with powdered sugar before serving. For an extra indulgent treat, pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. This dessert is perfect for gatherings, offering an exotic taste that will impress your guests. Whether served warm or at room temperature, Kingston Strudel captures the heart of culinary fusion, blending the essence of global traditions into a sweet masterpiece.