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This Indian-inspired cheese twist recipe combines the flakiness of puff pastry with the bold flavors of garam masala, fresh coriander, and two types of cheese. The result is a crowd-pleasing appetizer that's both impressive and surprisingly simple to prepare. I've been making these for years as my go-to party starter, and they disappear faster than I can bring them out.
These twists have become my signature dish for gatherings. I first made them when hosting an impromptu dinner party, and despite my limited time, these cheese twists earned me a reputation as a skilled cook among my friends.
Ingredients
- Puff pastry sheets: Cold from the refrigerator for easier handling and maximum flakiness
- Mature Cheddar cheese: Adds sharp flavor that stands up to the spices
- Low-moisture mozzarella: Provides that satisfying cheese pull when warm
- Red onion: Finely diced for subtle crunch and flavor without overpowering
- Fresh coriander: Brings brightness and authentic Indian flavor
- Garam masala: A warming spice blend that gives these twists their distinctive character
- Red chilli flakes: For a pleasant heat that balances the richness
- Kalonji seeds: Add a visual pop and subtle onion-like flavor
- Milk, turmeric, and agave: Create a golden eggless wash for beautiful color
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the filling:
- Combine both cheeses, finely diced red onion, chopped coriander, garam masala and chilli flakes in a bowl. The key is mixing thoroughly so each twist has an even distribution of flavors. The moisture from the onion will help everything stick together nicely.
- Assemble the pastry sandwich:
- Lay one sheet of cold puff pastry on parchment paper and evenly spread the cheese mixture leaving a small border around the edges. The cold pastry is crucial here as warm pastry will become sticky and difficult to work with. Press the filling gently into the pastry just enough to help it adhere without compromising the layers.
- Top and seal:
- Place the second sheet of puff pastry over the filling and press the edges together firmly to create a seal. Think of it like closing a sandwich. This prevents filling from escaping during baking and creates that beautiful layered effect. The pastry edges should stick together naturally from the pressure, but you can use a tiny bit of water if needed.
- Chill before cutting:
- Return your assembled pastry to the refrigerator for 10 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the butter in the pastry to firm up again, ensuring those beautiful flaky layers. If your kitchen is warm, don't skip this step even if your pastry still feels cold.
- Cut and twist:
- Cut the chilled pastry into long strips approximately 5-6cm wide. Hold each strip at both ends and twist in opposite directions to create that classic spiral look. The twisting motion should be gentle but firm. If some filling falls out, simply tuck it back in between the pastry layers.
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My absolute favorite ingredient in this recipe is the garam masala. I make my own blend using toasted cumin, coriander, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and black pepper. The aroma fills my kitchen and instantly transports me back to the street food markets of Delhi that I visited years ago. That trip forever changed how I approach spices in my cooking.
Make Them Vegan
These cheese twists are incredibly easy to adapt for vegan guests or those with dairy restrictions. Simply substitute the cheeses with your favorite vegan alternatives. I find that vegan cheddar-style shreds work particularly well, as do mozzarella-style blocks that you can grate yourself. Plant-based milk works perfectly for the wash, and the agave adds just the right amount of golden color without eggs. The flavor profile remains deliciously authentic with no compromise on taste or texture.
Serving Suggestions
These cheese twists make a stunning centerpiece on any appetizer table, but they truly shine when paired with complementary dips and accompaniments. Try serving them alongside a cool mint-yogurt chutney for a traditional pairing that balances the warm spices. For a more substantial meal, pair with a simple lentil soup or fresh green salad. I like to serve them standing upright in a tall glass or vase lined with parchment paper for a dramatic presentation that always impresses guests.
Storage Tips
For maximum freshness, store fully cooled cheese twists in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They can be refreshed in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes to restore their crispness. For longer storage, freeze unbaked twists on a parchment-lined tray, then transfer to freezer bags once solid. Bake directly from frozen, adding about 5-7 minutes to the baking time. The convenience of having these ready to bake makes them perfect for unexpected guests or last-minute entertaining needs.
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These cheese twists are simple to make but deliver big on flavor and presentation—perfect for impressing guests with minimal effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make these cheese twists ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the cheese twists up to the twisting stage, then refrigerate them (covered) for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze the unbaked twists for up to 1 month - just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when cooking from frozen.
- → What can I serve with Indian Cheese Twists?
These twists pair wonderfully with chutneys like mint-coriander or tamarind chutney. They also complement a warm bowl of tomato soup or can be served as part of an Indian-inspired appetizer platter alongside samosas and pakoras.
- → Can I use homemade puff pastry instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! Homemade puff pastry works beautifully in this recipe. Just ensure it's rolled to a similar thickness as store-bought (about 2-3mm) and thoroughly chilled before assembling the twists.
- → What are kalonji (nigella) seeds and can I substitute them?
Kalonji, also known as nigella seeds, have a slightly bitter, oniony flavor that's distinctive in Indian cuisine. If unavailable, black sesame seeds make a good visual substitute, though the flavor will be different. Alternatively, cumin seeds can provide a complementary Indian flavor profile.
- → How do I store leftover cheese twists?
Store cooled cheese twists in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F (180°C) oven for 5-7 minutes to restore crispness. For longer storage, freeze baked twists for up to 3 months and reheat from frozen.
- → Can I make these cheese twists vegan?
Yes! As mentioned in the ingredients list, you can use vegan cheese alternatives for both the Cheddar and mozzarella. Ensure your puff pastry is vegan (many store-bought versions are) and use plant-based milk for the wash. The flavor profile will remain deliciously Indian-inspired.