These furikake sticks are a riff on cheese twists but use furikake, or rice sprinkles, nori and cheese and by the awesome powers invested in puff pastry turn out to be just as delicious with what for me are the flavours of growing up.
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Cheese sticks with furikake are a delightful fusion snack that combines cheesy goodness with the umami-rich flavors of furikake, a Japanese seasoning mix. Furikake typically contains ingredients like seaweed, sesame seeds, and sometimes dried fish, adding a unique twist to classic cheese sticks. Here's a recipe for making cheese sticks with furikake at home.
Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Prepare the Puff Pastry:
Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut the pastry into strips about 1 inch wide and 6 inches long. This will be the base for your cheese sticks.
Prepare the Egg Wash:
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash. This will help the furikake and cheese stick to the pastry.
Assemble the Cheese Sticks:
Brush each puff pastry strip with the egg wash. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the strips, then add a generous sprinkling of furikake. If you like extra crunch, you can also add sesame seeds or additional shredded cheese.
Twist and Bake:
Gently twist each cheese stick, creating a spiral shape. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Brush the tops with more egg wash for a golden finish.
Bake the Cheese Sticks:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the pastry is golden brown. Keep an eye on the sticks to prevent burning.
Cool and Serve:
Once the cheese sticks are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature.
These cheese sticks with furikake are perfect as a snack or appetizer, offering a cheesy, savory flavor with a hint of umami from the furikake. They are great for parties, picnics, or as a side to soups and salads. If you want more ideas for similar fusion snacks or cheese-based recipes, I can share additional suggestions. Enjoy your cheese sticks with furikake!
