Tiramisu, a beloved Italian dessert, is a canvas of rich flavors and textures. It’s a delicate dance of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone, and a dusting of cocoa powder. Today, we’re taking this classic dessert to new heights, infusing it with the vibrant spirit of the Mediterranean.
Ingredients:
For the Ladyfingers:
2 large eggs, separated
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup cornstarch
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Coffee Syrup:
1 cup strong brewed coffee
1/4 cup sugar
1 tablespoon Frangelico or Amaretto liqueur (optional)
For the Mascarpone Cream:
1 pound mascarpone cheese, softened
1/2 cup heavy cream, chilled
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Olive Oil Drizzle:
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Pinch of salt
For Garnish:
Cocoa powder
Fresh mint leaves
Tiramisu – Olive Garden
Image Source: sndimg.com
Preparation Process:
Total Time: 2 hours (including chilling time)
1. Prepare the Ladyfingers:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, whisk egg whites with salt until stiff peaks form. Gradually add sugar, beating until glossy.
In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks with vanilla extract until pale and fluffy.
Gently fold the egg yolk mixture into the whipped egg whites, then fold in flour and cornstarch.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool completely.
2. Make the Coffee Syrup:
Combine coffee, sugar, and liqueur (if using) in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer, stirring until sugar dissolves. Let cool completely.
3. Prepare the Mascarpone Cream:
In a large bowl, beat mascarpone cheese until smooth. Gradually beat in heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
4. Assemble the Tiramisu:
Dip ladyfingers in coffee syrup, one at a time, and arrange in a single layer in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Spread a layer of mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers.
Repeat the layers of ladyfingers and cream, finishing with a layer of cream.
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight.
5. Prepare the Olive Oil Drizzle:
Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, and salt.
6. Serve:
Dust the top of the tiramisu with cocoa powder.
Drizzle with olive oil mixture.
Garnish with fresh mint leaves.
A Fusion of Cultures
This Olive Garden Tiramisu is a testament to the beauty of culinary fusion. It marries the elegance of Italian dessert-making with the bold flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. The rich, creamy mascarpone is complemented by the bitter sweetness of coffee and the subtle tang of lemon. The drizzle of olive oil adds a luxurious touch, elevating the dessert to new heights.
Each bite is a journey through a symphony of flavors, a celebration of cultural exchange. It’s a reminder that the best dishes are often born from the fusion of diverse culinary traditions.
