Macarons, those little marvels of French patisserie, continue to astonish and delight with their lightness and airy texture. However, beyond the classic chocolate or raspberry ganache macarons, a bolder variation has emerged: the salty avocado macaron. This creation blends the elegance of a high-end dessert with the freshness and delicacy of a savory ingredient, offering a tasting experience that is both surprising and refined.
Behind this savory take on the iconic macaron lies a subtle interplay of textures and flavors. The macaron, with its slightly crunchy shell and soft interior, transforms into a true palette of tastes, where the creamy and mild avocado pairs perfectly with a delicately seasoned filling. The freshness of the avocado contrasts with the lightly sweet shell, creating a harmony of flavors that surprises while delighting the taste buds.
The salty avocado macaron originates from the pursuit of new culinary experiences, where the boundaries between sweet and savory blur. Avocado, now a staple in kitchens around the world, comes together here with savory ingredients that enhance its creamy texture and mild flavor. The idea behind these macarons is to offer a modern and original take on French pastry while preserving the very essence of the macaron: finesse, elegance, and surprise.
Salty avocado macarons are perfect for an elegant appetizer or a chic reception, where they can become tiny, refined bites that pique the curiosity of your guests. Served cold, they offer an incomparable freshness and originality that will leave a lasting impression. It’s a true culinary challenge that combines technical mastery with creativity, a blend of classic and contemporary.
If you’re ready to explore new dimensions of pastry, salty avocado macarons will take you on a tasting journey where the unexpected becomes true elegance. Allow yourself to be seduced by their subtlety and sophistication, for an experience that reinvents the macaron while honoring French tradition.
Salty Avocado Macarons
Macaron Shell:
- 220g egg whites
- 600g powdered sugar
- 600g almond flour
- 5g cumin
- 5g pepper
- 10g salt
- 1 lemon (zested)
Avocado Filling:
- 230g egg whites
- 600g granulated sugar
- 150g water
- Avocado (peeled and mashed)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zit L3oud (presumably a spice or herb, could be clarified)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Cream (for cooking)
- Gelatin mass (to set the filling)
Macaron Shell Preparation:
- Prepare the Meringue Base:
- In a clean, dry mixing bowl, whip the egg whites (220g) until stiff peaks form. Gradually add the granulated sugar (600g), a little at a time, while continuing to whip until the meringue is glossy and firm.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, combine the almond flour (600g), powdered sugar (600g), cumin (5g), pepper (5g), and salt (10g). Sift the mixture well to ensure there are no lumps.
- Combine the Meringue and Dry Ingredients:
- Gently fold the sifted dry ingredients into the meringue using a spatula. Be careful not to deflate the meringue too much, but ensure everything is fully incorporated. Add the lemon zest (1 lemon) and mix lightly.
- Pipe the Macaron Shells:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Using a piping bag with a plain round tip, pipe small rounds of the macaron mixture onto the baking sheet. Aim for uniform circles about 3-4 cm in diameter.
- Rest the Macarons:
- Let the piped macarons rest for 30 minutes to 1 hour at room temperature. This resting time allows a skin to form on the surface, which is essential for achieving the classic macaron “feet.”
- Bake the Macarons:
- Preheat the oven to 150°C (300°F). Bake the macarons for 12-15 minutes or until they have formed their signature feet and the shells feel firm when lightly touched. Let them cool completely on the baking sheet before removing.
Avocado Filling Preparation:
- Prepare the Avocado Mixture:
- In a blender or food processor, combine the peeled avocado, lemon juice, zit l3oud (clarify if it’s a specific spice or herb), salt, and pepper to taste. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Add Cream and Gelatin:
- In a small saucepan, heat cream (for cooking) over low heat until warm, then add the gelatin mass (previously prepared according to package instructions) and stir until fully dissolved.
- Combine the Avocado Mixture and Gelatin:
- Slowly add the warm gelatin mixture to the avocado blend and stir to incorporate fully. The mixture should be smooth and set slightly but still spreadable.
- Cool the Filling:
- Refrigerate the avocado filling for about 30 minutes to firm it up slightly, making it easier to pipe.
Assembly:
- Pipe the Filling:
- Once the macaron shells are completely cool, flip half of them over. Using a piping bag, pipe a small amount of the avocado filling onto the flat side of each shell.
- Sandwich the Macarons:
- Gently press the remaining macaron shells on top of the filled ones to form a sandwich. Be careful not to press too hard to avoid cracking the delicate shells.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Let the assembled macarons sit for a few hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to develop.
Chef’s Tips:
- Resting Time: Resting the piped macaron shells before baking is essential for achieving the perfect texture and feet.
- Gelatin: Be sure to follow the instructions for preparing the gelatin, as it helps stabilize the avocado filling and prevents it from becoming too runny.
- Avocado Variations: You can add other savory ingredients like chives or garlic to the filling for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion: The Elegance of Salty Avocado Macarons
The salty avocado macaron is an unexpected yet delightful twist on the classic French pastry. Combining the delicate crispiness of the macaron shell with the creamy, rich flavor of avocado, this creation stands out as a sophisticated treat that is perfect for those looking to explore new flavors. The balance of the creamy avocado filling with subtle hints of lemon and spices offers a fresh and savory experience that elevates the macaron beyond its traditional sweet origins.
While making macarons requires patience and precision, the result is well worth the effort. These bite-sized delicacies are not only beautiful to look at but also offer a surprising complexity of flavor that makes them a conversation starter at any event. Whether served as an appetizer, at a high tea, or as a unique twist on a savory canapé, the salty avocado macaron brings both elegance and innovation to the table.
By following the tips and techniques shared here, you can master the art of making macarons with a savory flair, creating an unforgettable experience for your guests. So, embrace the challenge, trust the process, and savor the refined and fresh flavors that these salty avocado macarons offer.
Q&A: Everything You Need to Know About Salty Avocado Macarons
Why are macarons difficult to make?
Macarons require precision and attention to detail. The process involves whipping egg whites to the perfect consistency, folding the dry ingredients without deflating the meringue, and timing the baking perfectly. Resting the batter is essential for getting the correct “feet” on the macaron. But with practice and patience, anyone can master them.
Can I make salty avocado macarons in advance?
Yes, you can! The macaron shells can be baked and stored in an airtight container for up to a week. The avocado filling can be made ahead and kept in the refrigerator for a day or two. Once assembled, it’s best to consume the macarons within a few hours or store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours to maintain their freshness.
How do I achieve the perfect “feet” on my macarons?
The key to achieving perfect feet is to let the macarons rest after piping. The batter needs to form a skin before baking, which helps the macaron rise properly. Make sure your oven is preheated to the right temperature and avoid opening the oven door during baking to ensure even heat distribution.
Can I substitute the avocado with other ingredients?
While avocado is the star ingredient in this recipe, you can experiment with other creamy, savory fillings like whipped goat cheese, ricotta, or even a flavored hummus for a different twist. However, avocado offers a smooth texture and mild flavor that complements the macaron shell exceptionally well.
Do I need to use gelatin in the filling?
The gelatin helps stabilize the avocado filling, ensuring it has the right texture and doesn’t become too runny. While it’s possible to make the filling without gelatin, using it will result in a firmer filling that holds up better when the macarons are assembled.
Can I add other spices to the macaron shell?
Yes! Cumin is the base spice in this recipe, but you can experiment with other spices to suit your taste. Consider adding smoked paprika for a deeper, earthier flavor or a pinch of chili powder for a hint of heat. Just be careful not to overpower the delicate flavor of the macaron itself.
How do I store my salty avocado macarons?
Store the macarons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or in the fridge for up to a week. If you want to preserve them longer, you can freeze the assembled macarons, but note that the filling may change in texture once thawed.