KESHI YENA (Stuffed Edam Cheese) Recipe ๐ง
Description:
Keshi Yena is a tantalizing traditional dish hailing from the picturesque Dutch Caribbean island of Curacao. This culinary gem infuses flavors from both European and Caribbean cuisines, resulting in a savory delight that’s sure to impress. Though it demands a bit of time and effort, the end result is undeniably worth every moment spent in the kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 2 Edam cheeses
- 2 cups ground beef
- 1 handful parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon capers
- 3 tomatoes, chopped
- 1/4 green pepper, diced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 eggs
- 2 tablespoons raisins
- 2 prunes, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Tabasco sauce, to taste
- Margarine, for greasing
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 410.4
- Fat: 30.4g
- Saturated Fat: 18.3g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
- Sodium: 1030.3mg
- Carbohydrates: 7.8g
- Fiber: 1.2g
- Sugar: 5.1g
- Protein: 26.8g
Instructions:
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Preparation:
- Begin by cutting a small horizontal circle on the upper part of each Edam cheese to create a “lid”.
- Gently scoop out the inside of the cheeses, leaving a shell approximately 1/4″ to 1/2″ inch thick.
- Prepare the filling ingredients: chop the parsley, tomatoes, green pepper, onion, and garlic. Also, chop the prunes and set aside.
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Cooking the Filling:
- In a skillet, heat the butter over medium heat. Add the ground beef and sautรฉ until browned.
- Add in the chopped vegetables (parsley, capers, tomatoes, green pepper, onion, and garlic) along with the tomato paste, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, raisins, prunes, salt, pepper, and Tabasco sauce.
- Stir well to combine all the ingredients and allow the mixture to simmer for approximately 20 minutes, or until the tomatoes are reduced and the flavors meld together.
- Once done, remove the skillet from the stove and let the filling mixture cool slightly.
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Assembling the Keshi Yena:
- In a separate bowl, beat 2 eggs and add them to the filling mixture. Stir until well combined.
- Generously grease a casserole dish or the top of a double boiler with margarine.
- Place one of the hollowed-out Edam cheese shells upright in the greased dish.
- Fill the cheese shell with the prepared vegetable and beef mixture, ensuring it’s packed in tightly.
- Cover the filled cheese with its corresponding “lid” (the cheese circle that was cut out earlier).
- Beat the remaining egg and spread it over the top of the cheese as a sealer.
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Cooking Options:
- Option 1 (Baking): Preheat your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC). Set the casserole dish with the assembled Keshi Yena in a larger baking pan filled with hot water. Bake for approximately 1 1/2 hours, or until the cheese is golden brown and the filling is heated through.
- Option 2 (Steaming): Alternatively, if using a double boiler, place it over simmering water. Cover and cook for the same duration as baking, replenishing water as needed to maintain a gentle simmer.
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Serving Suggestions:
- Once cooked, remove the Keshi Yena from the oven or double boiler and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Slice into wedges and serve warm, accompanied by your favorite side dishes such as rice, salad, or crusty bread.
- Enjoy this delightful fusion of flavors that captures the essence of Curacaoan cuisine!
Tips:
- For a twist, consider adding other ingredients such as olives, bell peppers, or even pineapple to the filling mixture for added flavor and texture.
- Ensure the cheese shells are hollowed out evenly to create a sturdy base for the filling.
- Experiment with different levels of spiciness by adjusting the amount of Tabasco sauce to suit your taste preferences.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated gently in the oven or microwave for a quick and delicious meal the next day.
๐ด Experience a Taste of the Caribbean ๐ด
Indulge in the rich and flavorful Keshi Yena, a culinary masterpiece that brings together the best of Dutch and Caribbean cuisines in every mouthwatering bite. Whether enjoyed as a comforting weeknight meal or showcased as the star of your next dinner party, this stuffed Edam cheese dish is sure to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and embark on a culinary journey to the sunny shores of Curacao with this sensational recipe!