Poppy Seed Squares
When I came across this unusual appetizer, I just knew I had to try it. Although I prepare these squares every Christmas, no one tires of them.
When I came across this unusual appetizer, I just knew I had to try it. Although I prepare these squares every Christmas, no one tires of them.
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 pound ground beef
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup shortening
- 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- crust:
- 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 1-1/2 cups finely chopped fresh mushrooms
- 1 can (10-3/4 ounces) condensed cream of celery or mush
- 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish
- Carbohydrate 28.8091266893762 g
- Cholesterol 38.7426527692548 mg
- Fat 21.598865575616 g
- Fiber 1.4062560897394 g
- Protein 12.6706278074942 g
- Saturated Fat 8.33763131947184 g
- Serving Size 1 1 dozen. (118g)
- Sodium 518.266931896023 mg
- Sugar 27.4028705996368 g
- Trans Fat 1.74187609580271 g
- Calories 365 calories
Step-by-step
- In a large skillet, cook the beef, mushrooms and onion over medium heat until meat is no longer pink. Add the soup, horseradish, salt and pepper. Remove from the heat; set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, poppy seeds, baking powder and salt. Cut in shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add water, tossing with a fork until a ball forms. Divide dough in half.
- Roll out one portion into a 15x10-in. rectangle; transfer to an ungreased 15x10x1-in. baking pan.
- Spoon meat mixture over dough.
- Roll out the remaining dough into 15x10-in. rectangle; place over filling.
- Bake at 425 degrees until golden brown, about 25 minutes.
- Cut into small squares.
Poppy Seed Squares: A Festive Treat That's Always a Hit
Christmas is a time for cherished traditions, and for me, that includes these delightful Poppy Seed Squares. I first encountered this recipe years ago, and it instantly became a staple in our holiday celebrations. The savory meat filling, nestled between layers of tender, subtly sweet poppy seed crust, is a unique and unforgettable combination that always leaves guests wanting more. The squares are surprisingly easy to make, despite their impressive flavor, making them a perfect addition to my busy Christmas schedule. Year after year, these squares remain a crowd-pleaser; no one ever seems to tire of their unique charm.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability. While I’ve stuck to the original recipe for years, there’s always room for experimentation. I’ve considered adding different cheeses to the meat filling for extra richness, or maybe incorporating some caramelized onions for a deeper sweetness. The possibilities are endless. This year I'm thinking of adding a sprinkle of parmesan to the crust for extra flavour. Each Christmas, as I roll out the dough, prepare the flavorful meat mixture and bake these golden squares, I am reminded of past Christmases and the warmth of family gathered around the table. The aroma alone fills our home with festive cheer, creating the perfect atmosphere for sharing laughter and creating lasting memories.
The process of making these squares is therapeutic in a way, a perfect blend of following a familiar pattern and yet having that small sense of accomplishment at the end. The subtle crunch of the poppy seeds, the savory heartiness of the meat filling, the soft texture of the dough – it’s a truly satisfying experience. And the best part? The clean-up is surprisingly straightforward, even with the slightly messy meat preparation. So, as the holiday season approaches, these Poppy Seed Squares become more than just a dish; they are a symbol of tradition, family, and the joy of creating something delicious to share with loved ones. They are a testament to the simple pleasures that make Christmas truly special. And I highly recommend adding it to your holiday cooking repertoire.
Beyond the Holidays: While these squares are a perfect fit for Christmas, there's no reason to limit yourself to the festive season. The savory-sweet combination makes them a delightful appetizer any time of year. Imagine serving these at a casual get-together with friends or even as a unique side dish for a family dinner. Their versatility makes them a welcome addition to any gathering. The unexpected flavor profile is sure to impress, sparking conversations and creating positive memories. They're easy enough for a weeknight meal, but elegant enough for a special occasion.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Use a combination of ground beef and ground pork or sausage.
- Add some spice: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes into the meat mixture for a touch of heat.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for a meat-free option.
- Cheese please: Add shredded cheddar cheese or crumbled feta to the meat filling for extra flavor and texture.
- Experiment with herbs: Fresh parsley or thyme would complement the flavors beautifully.
- Make it ahead: The squares can be assembled a day or two in advance and baked when ready.
- Freezing Option: Once baked and cooled, you can freeze the squares for later enjoyment.
So, this Christmas, or any time of year you desire, try making these remarkable Poppy Seed Squares. They're a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, a delicious culinary adventure, and a testament to the simple joys of cooking and sharing. Happy baking!
