Spicy Cheese Straws Recipe

Introduction

Spicy Cheese Straws are a delightful and crispy snack perfect for parties or an afternoon treat. Combining sharp cheese with a hint of chili, these straws offer a flavorful kick wrapped in a buttery, flaky pastry. They’re simple to make and sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 200 g plain white flour (all purpose flour)
• ¼ tsp English mustard powder
• ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 125 g salted butter
• 75 g Parmesan or vegetarian hard cheese alternative
• 1 red chilli, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp whole milk
• 1 medium free range egg, beaten
• Pinch salt and black pepper

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan/390°F).
2. Step 2: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, mustard powder, and black pepper.
3. Step 3: Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients and rub together with your fingertips until the mix resembles fine crumbs. Alternatively, pulse briefly in a food processor until the flour takes on a slightly yellow hue.
4. Step 4: Stir in the finely grated cheese and chopped red chilli using a fork.
5. Step 5: Pour in the milk and cut through the mixture with a knife until it begins to clump together.
6. Step 6: Gently knead the mixture just until it forms a cohesive dough.
7. Step 7: Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to an approximately 28 cm (11 inch) square, about 3-4 mm (1/8 inch) thick. Trim the edges for an even shape.
8. Step 8: Cut the dough into long strips about 1.5 cm (1/2 inch) wide using a ruler for precision if desired.
9. Step 9: Place the strips on one or two nonstick baking sheets, leaving space between each.
10. Step 10: Brush the tops lightly with the beaten egg.
11. Step 11: Sprinkle a pinch of salt and black pepper over the straws.
12. Step 12: Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes until the straws are crisp and golden.
13. Step 13: Allow to cool on the baking tray; the straws should be light, crisp, and sturdy enough to hold their shape when lifted.

Tips & Variations

• For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or replace the red chilli with finely chopped fresh jalapeños.
• Substitute Parmesan with aged cheddar for a different but equally delicious flavor.
• If you prefer a more uniform shape, consider using a pizza wheel to cut the strips.
• Make the dough ahead and chill it for 30 minutes before rolling out to make handling easier.

Storage

Store the cheese straws in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain crispness. If they soften, re-crisp them in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use gluten-free flour for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute plain white flour with a gluten-free blend suitable for baking. Texture may slightly differ, but the cheese straws should still turn out tasty.

Can I prepare the dough a day ahead?

Absolutely. Wrap the dough in cling film and refrigerate overnight. Bring it to room temperature before rolling out and baking as directed.