Tender shells

Recipe for Fragrant Scallops with Plum Jam

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 24 clams

General description

Fragrant scallops are a sweet delight, perfect to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee. These delicate cookies, filled with plum jam, combine the crunchy texture of the dough with the sweetness of the fruit to create a great taste experience. The history of these sweets is intertwined with family traditions and festive moments, often made at special times to give to loved ones.

Ingredients

- 2 egg yolks
- 6 tablespoons sugar
- 4 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 sachet of baking powder
- 250 g margarine (preferably Unirea margarine for a perfect texture)
- Grated zest of one lemon (for a fresh scent)
- A pinch of salt
- Flour, as much as you need (about 350g, but may vary depending on moisture)
- Plum jam (or other favorite jam for the filling)

Preparation technique

1. Preparing the ingredients: make sure all ingredients are at room temperature to mix evenly. It's important to use quality margarine, which will help to make a tender dough.

2. Mixing ingredients: In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks and sugar until fluffy. Add cream and melted (but not hot) margarine and mix well.

3. Adding flavorings: Stir in baking powder dissolved in a little vinegar (this step is essential for an airy dough), lemon zest and a pinch of salt. These will give not only flavor but also a pleasant fragrance to your scallops.

4. Incorporating the flour: Add the flour gradually, stirring with a spatula or your hands, until the dough is elastic and easy to handle. Flour should be added gradually to avoid too stiff a dough.

5. Forming the shells: Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 5mm. Use the spout of a glass to cut circles from the dough. In the middle of each circle, add a teaspoon of plum jam.

6. Wrapping: Fold the circles of dough over the jam, forming a 'clamshell' and press the edges with a fork to ensure a good seal. This will prevent the jam from leaking during baking.

7. Baking: Place the scallops on a tray lined with a little oil or baking paper, leaving a little space between them as they will expand slightly. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 10 minutes or until golden brown.

8. Finishing: Once out of the oven, allow them to cool slightly, then 'roll' them in vanilla icing sugar for an attractive look and extra sweetness.

Serving and variations

Tender scallops can be served hot or cold, and are great to give as sweet gifts during the holidays. You can experiment with different jams (apricot, raspberry or even nutella) to customize the recipe to your preference. You can also add some ground nuts to the jam for extra texture.

Useful tips

- If you prefer a more intense lemon flavor, add a few drops of lemon juice to the batter.
- Check the texture of the dough; if it's too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it as the dough will become stiffer.
- Make sure that the jam you use is not too runny, to avoid it leaking.

Nutritional benefits

These tender scallops are a source of carbohydrates and fats, while the plum jam provides a boost of vitamins and antioxidants. Although they are a dessert, they can be enjoyed in moderation and are a better choice than many other processed sweets. A serving of two shells contains about 180-200 calories, depending on the filling and the amount of sugar used.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use butter instead of margarine?
- Yes, butter gives a richer taste and the texture will be even more tender.

2. How can I store scallops?
- Store them in an airtight container at room temperature to avoid moisture.

3. Can I freeze the scallops?
- Yes, scallops can be frozen before cooking. Place them on a tray, freeze them and then store them in a freezer bag.

Personal story

I fondly remember the times I spent in the kitchen with my grandmother showing me how to prepare tender clams. They were holidays full of smiles, and every bite reminded us of the simple joy of family. Now, when I cook them, I feel connected to those fond memories and the tradition of giving love through food.

Conclusion

The tender scallops with plum jam are a quick and simple to make dessert ideal for any occasion. With a crunchy texture and sweet filling, these cookies are sure to bring smiles to the faces of loved ones. Try this recipe and enjoy every moment in the kitchen! Enjoy and happy holidays!

 Ingredients: -2 egg yolks-6 tablespoons of sugar-4 tablespoons of sour cream-1 packet of baking powder-250 g Unirea margarine-grated lemon zest-a pinch of salt-flour as needed-plum jam for filling