Introduction

Greetings, sweet enthusiasts! Today, we’re embarking on a delectable journey to Portugal’s rich culinary landscape with a recipe that epitomizes elegance and sweetness – Lampreia de Ovos. These intricately crafted egg-shaped treats are not just a dessert; they are a celebration of Portugal’s sweet heritage. Join me as we explore the art of creating Lampreia de Ovos, a delightful delicacy that graces tables during festive occasions and special moments.

For Whom and Why

Lampreia de Ovos is for those who seek the harmonious blend of artistry and taste in their desserts. If you appreciate sweets that are not only a treat for the palate but also a feast for the eyes, these egg-shaped delights are perfect for you. Ideal for festive occasions, weddings, or any celebration that demands a touch of elegance, Lampreia de Ovos showcases the skillful craftsmanship of Portuguese pastry. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or an aspiring one, this recipe promises a rewarding and visually stunning experience.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 large egg
• Pinch of salt

For the Filling:

• 2 cups sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 8 egg yolks
• 1/2 cup almond meal

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup apricot jam
• 2 tablespoons water

Directions

Making the Dough:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Add the cold, cubed butter and use your fingers to rub it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add the egg and mix until the dough comes together.
4. Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Making the Filling:

1. In a saucepan, combine sugar, water, and a cinnamon stick. Bring to a simmer, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Allow it to cool.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks.
3. Slowly add the cooled sugar syrup to the egg yolks, whisking continuously.
4. Stir in the almond meal.
5. Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly until it thickens into a custard-like consistency. Remove from heat and let it cool.

Assembling the Lampreia de Ovos:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Cut out egg shapes using an egg-shaped cookie cutter or a template.
4. Place a spoonful of the almond custard filling onto one half of each egg shape.
5. Fold the other half over the filling, sealing the edges to form an egg-shaped pastry.
6. Place the pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown.

Making the Glaze:

1. In a small saucepan, heat the apricot jam and water over low heat until melted and smooth.
2. Strain the mixture to remove any fruit pieces.

Glazing the Lampreia de Ovos:

1. Once the pastries have cooled, brush the apricot glaze over each one for a glossy finish.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To create these elegant Portuguese pastries, make sure you have the following kitchen equipment:

• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Egg-shaped cookie cutter or template
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Tips and Tricks

• Keep the butter cold for a flaky pastry texture.
• Use a light touch when rolling out the dough to maintain its delicate nature.
• Experiment with different shapes and sizes for a personalized touch.

Recipe Variations

• Add a touch of lemon zest to the almond custard for a citrusy twist.
• Substitute almond meal with ground hazelnuts for a different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Lampreia de Ovos as a standalone dessert or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat. Pair it with a cup of Portuguese coffee for a delightful conclusion to your meal.

Storing Tips

Keep these delicate pastries in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Refrigerate for longer storage, but bring them to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use store-bought almond meal?

Yes, you can use store-bought almond meal for convenience, but grinding your own almonds will provide a fresher flavor.

Can I freeze Lampreia de Ovos?

While the pastry can be frozen before baking, it’s best to freeze them without the glaze. Thaw and bake when ready to enjoy.

Can I use a different jam for the glaze?

Certainly! Choose a jam flavor that complements the almond filling, such as peach or raspberry.

Conclusion

Lampreia de Ovos invites you to savor the artistry and flavors of Portugal. With its delicate pastry, almond filling, and apricot glaze, these sweet egg-shaped pastries are a testament to the rich pastry tradition of this beautiful country. Embrace the elegance of Portuguese desserts by creating Lampreia de Ovos, and share the joy with friends and family. Subscribe to my blog for more international culinary delights, and happy baking!