Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will transport you straight to the heart of Eastern European kitchens! This isn't just another recipe – it's a treasured family secret passed down through generations, promising to elevate your baking from ordinary to extraordinary. Dad's Poppy Seed Filling is more than just a recipe; it's a nostalgic embrace of tradition, flavor, and love that will make your taste buds dance with delight!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Eastern European
Serves: 2 cups
Ingredients
- 1 cup poppy seeds
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Begin by measuring out 1 cup of poppy seeds and rinsing them thoroughly under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer. This will help remove any impurities and enhance the flavor of the filling.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed poppy seeds and 1 cup of milk. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent the seeds from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Once the mixture reaches a simmer, reduce the heat to low and add 1/2 cup of sugar. Stir well until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Next, add 1 tablespoon of honey to the mixture. Continue to stir to combine all the ingredients thoroughly, allowing the honey to melt and integrate into the filling.
- Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to the mixture. These ingredients will enhance the flavor profile of the poppy seed filling. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Allow the filling to cook on low heat for an additional 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The mixture should thicken slightly and become creamy. Be careful not to let it boil over.
- Once the filling has reached your desired consistency, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. The filling will continue to thicken as it cools.
- Transfer the poppy seed filling to a bowl or an airtight container. Allow it to cool completely before using it in your favorite pastries, such as strudels or kolaczki, or store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Tips
- Always rinse your poppy seeds thoroughly to remove any bitterness and ensure a clean, pure flavor.
- Use low heat when cooking to prevent burning and achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Stir frequently to prevent the seeds from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Don't rush the cooling process – the filling will continue to thicken as it cools.
- For the best flavor, use fresh, high-quality poppy seeds and pure vanilla extract.
- If the filling becomes too thick, you can thin it out with a little warm milk.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, allowing the flavors to meld and develop.
- Experiment with additional spices like cinnamon or almond extract for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 110kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 5mg
