Cheese straws are the classic crackers that everyone loves, right? Originating in England and then taken to the food culture of the South of USA (and still very popular there), the humble but delicious cheese straws spread throughout the world as well. Almost mandatory at weddings in Souther USA, they are very airy and tangy due to the touch of cayenne pepper and the sharpness of a good Cheddar cheese.
They also resemble the Sărățele of my native Romania, though those are a bit cheesier and shiny with egg-wash. The Southern USA cheese straws have an airier texture, but both are very much yum. :)
Recipe source: SplendidTable.
Last year: nothing.
Two years ago: nothing.
Three years ago: nothing.
Five years ago: Black Russian (cocktail).
Six years ago: Cheddar and oat scones (British).
Seven years ago: Mexican rice with vegetables (vegan).
Eight years ago: Sweet potato and prosciutto starters.
Ingredients:
- 1 and 2/3 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, or more to taste
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- 8 ounces extra-sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons water
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
Sift together the flour, salt, dry mustard, and cayenne pepper. Put the butter and grated cheese in a mixing bowl, and mix for several minutes, until thoroughly blended. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter and cheese, and mix until completely incorporated. Add the water, and mix for one minute longer.
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface, and knead five or six times. Roll the dough out 1/4 inch thick, and cut into strips 1/4 inch wide and 4-6 inches in length. Twist the dough strips so to give the cheese straws their characteristic shape:).
Place the strips on ungreased cookie sheets 1/2 inch apart, and bake in the preheated oven for 12-16 minutes, until golden brown and crisp.
Cool completely, and store in airtight containers. It's done, dig in! :)
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