What To Know
- The lactic acid in amasi promotes gluten development, resulting in a tender crumb that melts in your mouth.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently for just a few seconds, until it comes together into a smooth ball.
- Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon and a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dry ingredients.
Amasi, the fermented milk beverage cherished in South African cuisine, brings a unique tangy twist to baking. If you’re looking for a way to incorporate this traditional ingredient into your baking repertoire, look no further than scones! This blog post will guide you through the process of how to bake scones with amasi, revealing the secrets to achieving perfectly fluffy and flavorful scones.
The Magic of Amasi in Baking
Amasi, with its distinct sourness, adds a depth of flavor to baked goods. It acts as a natural leavening agent, replacing baking powder or soda in many recipes. The lactic acid in amasi promotes gluten development, resulting in a tender crumb that melts in your mouth.
Choosing the Right Amasi
The key to successful amasi scones lies in choosing the right amasi. Opt for a fresh batch with a pleasant tanginess, avoiding any that are overly sour or watery. Ensure the amasi is at room temperature before incorporating it into the dough.
The Recipe: Amasi Scones
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1 cup amasi, at room temperature
- 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut in the butter: Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, cut the chilled butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Add the amasi: Pour the room-temperature amasi into the bowl and gently stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Form the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently for just a few seconds, until it comes together into a smooth ball.
6. Shape the scones: Roll out the dough to about 1/2-inch thickness. Use a 2-inch cookie cutter to cut out scones.
7. Brush with egg wash: Brush the tops of the scones with the beaten egg.
8. Bake: Bake the scones for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
9. Cool and serve: Let the scones cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for Perfect Amasi Scones
- Don’t overmix: Overmixing the dough will result in tough scones. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Chill the dough: Chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking will help prevent the scones from spreading too much.
- Use a sharp cookie cutter: A sharp cookie cutter will ensure clean cuts and prevent the dough from being squished.
- Don’t overbake: Overbaked scones will be dry and crumbly. Keep a close eye on them in the oven.
Variations on Amasi Scones
The basic amasi scone recipe is a blank canvas for culinary creativity. Here are a few flavor variations to explore:
- Sweet and Spicy: Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon and a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dry ingredients.
- Fruity Delight: Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped dried cranberries or blueberries to the dough.
- Savory Bites: Replace the sugar with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and add 1/4 cup of grated cheddar cheese.
Serving and Enjoying Amasi Scones
Amasi scones are best enjoyed warm, but they can also be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Serve them with your favorite toppings, such as:
- Cream: Classic whipped cream or clotted cream adds a touch of richness and indulgence.
- Jam: Strawberry, raspberry, or apricot jam provide a sweet and tart contrast.
- Honey: A drizzle of honey adds a touch of sweetness and complexity.
The Tangy Finish: Amasi Scone Success
Baking scones with amasi is a unique and rewarding experience. The tangy flavor of amasi adds a distinctive touch to these classic treats. With a little practice and the right ingredients, you’ll be able to create delicious and satisfying scones that will impress your family and friends.
Popular Questions
Q: Can I substitute amasi with buttermilk?
A: Yes, buttermilk is a suitable substitute for amasi in this recipe. However, the flavor profile will be different.
Q: How do I know if my amasi is too sour?
A: If the amasi smells overly pungent or has a sharp, unpleasant taste, it’s likely too sour for baking.
Q: Can I freeze amasi scones?
A: Yes, you can freeze amasi scones for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.
Q: What is the best way to store leftover amasi scones?
A: Store leftover amasi scones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the scones for up to 3 months.
