Have you ever wondered how a simple vegetable can transform into an exquisite culinary delight? The savory beet macarons with goat cheese and walnut crunch challenge the notion that macarons must be sweet. This unique recipe not only tantalizes your taste buds but also brings a vibrant splash of color to your table. In this blog post, we’ll explore how to create these delightful savory treats, packed with flavor and nutrition. Let’s dive into the world of savory macarons!

Ingredients List

To create your savory beet macarons with goat cheese and walnut crunch, you will need the following ingredients:

Macaron Shells:

• 100g almond flour (or hazelnut flour for a nuttier flavor)
• 100g powdered sugar
• 40g egg whites (aged for 24 hours for better stability)
• 30g beetroot puree (fresh or canned)
• Pinch of salt

Goat Cheese Filling:

• 150g goat cheese (softened)
• 50g cream cheese (for creaminess)
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives (finely chopped)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Walnut Crunch:

• 50g walnuts (chopped)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
• Pinch of salt

Optional Substitutions:

• Use cashew cream instead of goat cheese for a dairy-free option.
• Substitute pumpkin puree for beetroot for a different flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beetroot Puree

1. Cook the beets: Boil or roast fresh beets until tender, then allow them to cool.
2. Blend: Puree the cooked beets until smooth. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Macaron Shells

1. Sift dry ingredients: In a bowl, sift together almond flour and powdered sugar to remove lumps.
2. Whip egg whites: In a separate bowl, whip aged egg whites with a pinch of salt until soft peaks form.
3. Fold in beet puree: Gradually fold the beet puree into the whipped egg whites until fully incorporated.
4. Combine: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture until a smooth batter forms.
5. Pipe the shells: Transfer the batter to a piping bag and pipe small circles onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Rest: Allow the piped shells to rest for 30 minutes until a skin forms.

Step 3: Bake the Macaron Shells

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 150°C (300°F).
2. Bake: Place the macarons in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. They should be firm to the touch.

Step 4: Prepare the Goat Cheese Filling

1. Mix ingredients: In a bowl, combine softened goat cheese, cream cheese, chopped chives, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.

Step 5: Create the Walnut Crunch

1. Toast walnuts: In a skillet, heat olive oil and add chopped walnuts. Toast until golden.
2. Add honey: Drizzle honey over the walnuts, stirring to coat. Remove from heat and let cool.

Step 6: Assemble the Macarons

1. Pair shells: Match macaron shells of similar size.
2. Fill: Spread the goat cheese mixture on one shell and sprinkle walnut crunch on top before sandwiching with the other shell.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving (1 macaron):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	120 kcal
Protein	4g
Carbohydrates	10g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Fat	8g
Saturated Fat	3g

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

• Dairy-Free Option: Use cashew cream instead of goat cheese.
• Lower Sugar: Replace honey with a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Serving Suggestions

These savory beet macarons can be served as a delightful appetizer or a unique addition to a charcuterie board. Consider pairing them with:

• A crisp salad with a vinaigrette dressing.
• A glass of sparkling wine or a light-bodied white wine to complement the flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overmixing the batter: This can lead to flat macarons. Fold gently until just combined.
2. Underbaking: Ensure the shells are firm before removing them from the oven.
3. Not resting the shells: Skipping this step can result in cracked tops.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

• Store leftovers: Keep macarons in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze assembled macarons. When ready to eat, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator.

Conclusion

Savory beet macarons with goat cheese and walnut crunch are a delightful twist on traditional macarons, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself. Try this unique recipe today, and don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments below! Subscribe for more delicious updates and recipes.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make these macarons ahead of time?

A1: Yes, you can prepare the shells and filling in advance. Assemble them just before serving for the best texture.

Q2: What if my macarons crack?

A2: Cracking can occur due to overmixing or high oven temperature. Ensure you follow the instructions carefully.

Q3: Can I use other vegetables?

A3: Absolutely! Carrots or sweet potatoes can be great alternatives for a different flavor profile.