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Savory Gingerbread and Festive Spritz

17/11/2023

I will start with the recipe for Savory Gingerbread, adding an Italian touch, and then I will describe how to prepare a Festive Spritz, ideal to accompany these nibbles.

Savory Gingerbread (Savory Ginger Biscuits)

Ingredients

  • 350 g of flour
  • 1 tablespoon of ground ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
  • 100 g of cold butter, cubed
  • 150 g of grated cheddar cheese (or another aged cheese according to Italian tradition)
  • 1 teaspoon of sea salt
  • 1 beaten egg
  • 2-3 tablespoons of cold water
  • A pinch of freshly ground black pepper
  • For an Italian touch, we can add a sprinkle of chopped rosemary or dried thyme

Preparation

  1. Preheat the oven to 180 °C (350 °F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, mix the flour, ginger, baking soda, salt, and pepper (and herbs if you decide to use them).
  3. Add the butter and work the mixture with your fingers until it resembles breadcrumbs.
  4. Fold in the grated cheese.
  5. Add the beaten egg and mix until starting to form a dough.
  6. Add water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough is compact and malleable.
  7. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a thickness of about 5 mm.
  8. Cut out the biscuits with a Christmas-themed shape or with the classic gingerbread man.
  9. Place the biscuits on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them.
  10. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden.
  11. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Festive Spritz

Ingredients

  • Prosecco
  • Aperol (for a classic spritz) or Campari for a more bitter version
  • Soda or sparkling water
  • Orange (for both garnish and a bit of juice)
  • Cloves
  • Cinnamon stick
  • Star anise
  • Ice

Preparation

  1. Fill a large glass with ice.
  2. Add equal parts Prosecco and Aperol or Campari.
  3. Add a splash of sparkling water.
  4. Pour in some fresh orange juice to add a festive note.
  5. Garnish with an orange slice, cloves, a cinnamon stick, and a star anise.
  6. Stir gently and serve immediately.

These savory gingerbreads with their Festive Spritz will surely be a hit at your Christmas aperitifs, with a nice blend of traditional flavors and a touch of Italian cheer!

Savory Gingerbread and Festive Spritz