The Ultimate Guide to Making Mauritian Napolitaine: A Traditional Sweet Delight
Introduction to Mauritian Gateau Napolitaine
Mauritius, an island nation in the Indian Ocean, is not only famous for its breathtaking landscapes and diverse culture but also for its exquisite cuisine. Among the myriad of delicacies, the Mauritian Gateau Napolitaine holds a special place in the hearts of both locals and visitors. This traditional sweet treat, with its tender shortbread cookies and vibrant jam filling, topped off with a delicate glaze, embodies the essence of Mauritian confectionery art.
Ingredients for Authentic Mauritian Napolitaine
To recreate this delightful Mauritian Napolitaine at home, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Shortbread Cookies:
250 grams of all-purpose flour
200 grams of unsalted butter, at room temperature
100 grams of powdered sugar
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
For the Filling:
150 grams of strawberry or raspberry jam
For the Glaze:
200 grams of powdered sugar
2-3 tablespoons of water or milk
A few drops of red food colouring
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Mauritian Napolitaine
Preparing the Shortbread Cookies
Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, softened unsalted butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix these ingredients until a soft dough forms.
Refrigerate the Dough: Wrap the dough in cling film and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial as it makes the dough easier to handle.
Roll and Cut: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 5mm thickness. Use a cookie cutter to cut out circles.
Bake: Place the cut-out cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.
Preparing the Jam Filling
Heat the Jam: In a small saucepan, gently heat the jam over low heat until it becomes slightly runny. This makes it easier to spread.
Assemble the Cookies: Once the cookies have cooled, spread a thin layer of the warm jam on one cookie and sandwich it with another cookie. Repeat this process with all the cookies.
Preparing the Glaze
Mix the Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the powdered sugar with water or milk and red food coloring. Stir until you have a smooth, pourable glaze. Adjust the consistency with more liquid or powdered sugar as needed.
Glaze the Cookies: Drizzle or spread the glaze over the top of each cookie sandwich. Allow the glaze to set completely before serving.
Serving and Storing Mauritian Napolitaine
Serve these beautiful red-glazed Napolitaines on a platter as a delightful treat during festivities, as a dessert after a meal, or as a sweet accompaniment with tea. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
The Mauritian Napolitaine is more than just a cookie; it's a celebration of Mauritian heritage and culinary expertise. By following this detailed guide, you can bring a taste of Mauritius into your home. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe promises to delight everyone who tries it.
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