Grana Padano and Jalapeño Lollipops: A Spicy and Savory Appetizer
Servings: 6 | Category: Appetizer
Prepare to surprise your guests with this unique and bold appetizer: Grana Padano and Jalapeño Lollipops. The combination of the rich, nutty flavor of Grana Padano cheese and the fiery heat from fresh jalapeños creates an irresistible snack that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Perfect for parties or as a starter to your meal, these lollipops are sure to make a statement.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Grana Padano DOP (Italian cheese) | 100g |
| Jalapeño Peppers | 3 |
Instructions
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Prepare the Jalapeños and Grana Padano:
- Start by slicing the jalapeño peppers into rings about 3 mm thick.
- Grate the Grana Padano cheese finely to get a smooth texture that will melt beautifully.
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Form the Cheese Discs:
- Line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Using a 4 cm diameter cookie cutter, place a teaspoon of grated Grana Padano cheese onto the tray to form 6 evenly spaced discs.
- Gently press a popsicle stick or skewer at the base of each cheese disc. This will create the “lollipop” shape.
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Add the Jalapeño:
- Place one of the jalapeño rings in the center of each cheese disc. This adds a burst of heat that will melt perfectly with the cheese during baking.
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Bake the Lollipops:
- Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F), using the static (non-convection) setting.
- Bake the lollipops for around 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly golden around the edges.
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Finishing Touches:
- Once the lollipops are done, sprinkle a little extra grated Grana Padano over the jalapeño rings to enhance the flavor.
- Let the lollipops cool down on the tray before serving. This allows them to firm up and become crisp.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Once cooled, your Grana Padano and Jalapeño Lollipops are ready to serve. Enjoy these delightful treats as a spicy appetizer or a fun finger food for your guests!
Notes
- Customize the Heat: If you prefer a milder flavor, you can remove the seeds from the jalapeños before slicing them to reduce the heat.
- Cheese Variations: While Grana Padano provides a wonderful nutty and creamy flavor, you can experiment with other hard cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano for a different twist.
- Serving Suggestions: These lollipops are perfect on their own, but feel free to pair them with a light dipping sauce or a chilled drink to balance the heat.
This unique and easy-to-make appetizer offers a delightful blend of creamy cheese and fiery spice, creating a flavorful experience for your taste buds. Ideal for impressing your guests at your next gathering or enjoying as a savory treat!
