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Savory parmesan, chorizo and walnut cookies elevate appetizer time into a gourmet experience. This sophisticated blend of Mediterranean flavors delivers the perfect balance between crunchy walnuts and a tender center. These irresistible bites have become a staple for entertaining, winning over even those skeptical of savory cookies.
At a recent impromptu gathering, these cookies disappeared within minutes. Every guest requested the recipe before leaving, eager to recreate them at home.
Key Ingredients
- Parmesan: Select 24-month aged parmesan for maximum flavor. Grate just before using to preserve its aroma
- Chorizo: Choose semi-dry Spanish chorizo for its complex flavor profile
- Walnuts: Fresh walnuts provide essential buttery notes
- Butter: Room temperature unsalted butter ensures proper dough consistency
- Flour: All-purpose flour yields the ideal light texture
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1. Ingredient Preparation
- Let butter soften for one hour. Dice chorizo into 3mm pieces. Roughly chop walnuts, leaving some larger pieces. Freshly grate parmesan.
- 2. Making the Dough
- Sift flour with baking powder. Add freshly ground black pepper and a pinch of salt, considering parmesan's saltiness. Mix in grated parmesan.
- 3. Adding Butter
- Work softened butter pieces into mixture until sandy texture forms. Avoid overworking to maintain crumbly texture.
- 4. Final Assembly
- Create well in center, add beaten egg. Mix until combined. Fold in chorizo and walnuts evenly. Dough should be pliable but not sticky.
- 5. Shaping and Baking
- Form 30g balls, flatten slightly on lined baking sheet. Space 3cm apart. Bake at 160°C for 18-20 minutes until edges are golden but center remains light.
These cookies have become our family's signature appetizer. The tradition of making them together, especially crushing walnuts, creates cherished kitchen memories.
Serving Suggestions
Serving temperature is crucial. Cool completely on rack to develop signature crunch. For serving, warm briefly at 150°C for 5 minutes to release parmesan's aroma.
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Perfect Pairings
These cookies pair beautifully with full-bodied red wine or crisp white wine. For freshness, serve alongside arugula dressed with olive oil.
Seasonal Variations
Summer versions feature fresh thyme or rosemary. Winter adaptations include a pinch of Espelette pepper for warming heat.
Final Thought: These savory cookies represent perfect balance between sophistication and simplicity. Each batch reminds us how everyday ingredients can transform into elegant, comforting treats.
Recipe Tips
- → Can you freeze the dough for later?
- Sure! Roll the dough into balls and freeze them. Bake straight from frozen while adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- → How do you get cookies extra crispy?
- Flatten out the dough balls and keep a close eye on them while they’re baking. A consistent oven temperature and precise cooking time can make all the difference.
- → What other variations can you try?
- Swap out the chorizo for bacon, fresh herbs, or spices. You can also replace parmesan with another hard cheese of your choice.
- → How should these cookies be stored?
- Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Steer clear of moisture to preserve their crunch.
- → Are these kid-friendly?
- Although delicious, the strong cheese and chorizo might not appeal to every kid. Adjust the amount based on what they prefer.