As Easter approaches, Russian households come alive with the aromas of freshly baked bread, savoury dishes, and, of course, decadent desserts. One such traditional Russian Easter treat is Paskha, a rich and creamy dessert that holds deep cultural significance. Paskha, which translates to “Easter” in Russian, is a delightful combination of creamy cheese, dried fruits, nuts, and spices, often shaped into a pyramid or dome to symbolise the tomb of Christ.
Join us on a culinary journey to Russia as we explore the history, ingredients, and preparation of this beloved Easter dessert, and learn how to recreate it in your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 500g farmer’s cheese (tvorog or cottage cheese)
– 200g unsalted butter, softened
– 200g powdered sugar
– 100g sour cream
– 100g heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 1/2 cup mixed dried fruits (such as raisins, currants, chopped apricots, and candied orange peel)
– 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, or pistachios)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
– Paskha mould or a clean, empty container (such as a flower pot or small bowl)
Instructions:
1. Start by preparing the farmer’s cheese. If using store-bought farmer’s cheese, drain any excess liquid by placing it in a fine-mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth and letting it sit in the refrigerator overnight. If making your own farmer’s cheese, follow a recipe or purchase it from a speciality store.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and powdered sugar. Beat with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
3. Add the farmer’s cheese, sour cream, heavy cream, vanilla extract, lemon zest, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt to the bowl. Mix until well combined and smooth.
4. Fold in the mixed dried fruits and chopped nuts until evenly distributed throughout the cheese mixture.
5. Prepare your Paskha mould or container by lining it with plastic wrap, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
6. Spoon the Paskha mixture into the mould, pressing it down firmly to eliminate any air pockets. Smooth the top with a spatula or the back of a spoon.
7. Cover the mould with plastic wrap and place a weight on top (such as a can or jar) to help compress the Paskha mixture. Refrigerate for at least 12 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavours to meld and the dessert to set.
8. Once chilled and set, carefully unmould the Paskha onto a serving platter. Remove the plastic wrap and decorate the top with additional dried fruits, nuts, or edible flowers, if desired.
9. Serve slices of Paskha alongside slices of Kulich (Russian Easter bread) and enjoy this decadent dessert with family and friends as part of your Easter celebration.
Experience the flavours and traditions of Russia with Paskha, a delightful Easter dessert that’s as rich in history as it is in taste. Whether enjoyed as a sweet ending to your Easter feast or as a special treat throughout the holiday season, Paskha is sure to bring joy and warmth to your home. Embrace the spirit of Russian hospitality and share the love with this indulgent dessert. Wishing you a happy and delicious Easter!
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