Sweet Lotus Puffs

Introduction to Sweet Lotus Puffs

Sweet Lotus Puffs are a delightful pastry delicacy, often savored during festive occasions in Asian cultures. These puffs are known for their delicate, flaky pastry and sweet, fragrant lotus paste filling. The dish finds its roots in Cantonese cuisine, often appearing at dim sum meals where small, bite-sized offerings are a staple. The fusion of lotus paste with a skillfully prepared dough results in a texture and flavor that embodies the elegance and subtlety of traditional Asian sweets.

Ingredients for Sweet Lotus Puffs

To achieve the perfect balance of sweetness and texture in your Sweet Lotus Puffs, gather these ingredients:

• Lotus paste - 300g
• All-purpose flour - 200g
• Unsalted butter - 100g, chilled and cubed
• Powdered sugar - 50g
• Cold water - 50ml
• Egg - 1, beaten (for egg wash)
• Sesame seeds - 2 tbsp

Preparation of Sweet Lotus Puffs

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

Begin by creating a fine pastry dough that forms the base of our Sweet Lotus Puffs:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour and powdered sugar.
2. Add chilled butter cubes and rub into the flour mixture using your fingertips until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
3. Gradually add cold water, mixing until the dough just comes together. Do not overwork the dough.
4. Wrap the dough in cling film and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Preparing the Lotus Paste Filling

While the dough rests, prepare the sumptuous lotus paste filling:

1. Divide the lotus paste into small, equal portions, approximately 15g each, and roll them into balls.

Assembling the Puffs

Step 3: Assembly and Shaping

With dough rolled and fillings ready, it's time to shape the puffs:

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 3mm thickness.
3. Cut out circles approximately 8cm in diameter.
4. Place a lotus paste ball at the center of each dough circle.
5. Gently wrap the dough around the paste, pinching the seams together to seal.
6. Mold them into the desired shape, traditionally oval.

Cooking Process

Baking the Puffs

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Arrange the assembled puffs on the sheet, leaving space between them.
3. Brush each puff with beaten egg to create a golden finish.
4. Sprinkle with sesame seeds to enhance flavor and appearance.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the puffs are crisp and golden brown.

Be sure to set a cooking timer to monitor the baking process.

How to Enjoy Sweet Lotus Puffs

Sweet Lotus Puffs are best enjoyed warm, with the pastry still flaky. They pair wonderfully with a cup of tea, offering a soothing balance to the rich sweetness of the lotus paste. Perfect for gatherings or as a treat for yourself, these puffs embody culinary tradition in each bite.