How to Make Casadiella: A Taste of Spanish Heaven at Home

Few things are as satisfying as biting into a warm, crispy casadiella, its savory filling oozing out with each mouthful. This traditional Spanish pastry, hailing from the Asturias region, is like a delectable lovechild of a quesadilla and an empanada, and trust me, it’s just as amazing as it sounds. Today, we’re going on a culinary adventure to bring the magic of Spain right into your kitchen. So, are you ready to discover How To Make Casadiella, a dish that’s sure to become a new family favorite? Let’s get started!

What You’ll Need to Make the Perfect Casadiella

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
• 1/2 cup warm water
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 pound ground chorizo (Spanish chorizo is preferred, but you can use Mexican chorizo too)
• 1 cup grated queso Cabrales (or your favorite melting cheese)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional:

• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (for an extra layer of flavor)

Casadiella Dough

Equipment:

• Large mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• Large skillet or griddle
• Spatula

Step-by-Step Guide: From Dough to Delicious Casadiella

1. Making the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the warm water and olive oil.
2. Using your hands or a wooden spoon, gradually incorporate the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until a smooth dough forms.
3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes elastic and no longer sticky.
4. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and let it rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll out.

2. Preparing the Filling

1. While the dough is resting, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the ground chorizo to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and cooked through. If you’re using Mexican chorizo, be sure to drain off any excess grease.
5. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the grated queso Cabrales (or your chosen cheese). Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika to taste. Set the filling aside to cool slightly.

Casadiella Filling

3. Assembling and Cooking the Casadiella

1. Divide the rested dough into 8 equal portions. On a lightly floured surface, roll out each portion into a thin circle, about 6-7 inches in diameter.
2. Spoon a generous amount of the chorizo and cheese filling onto one half of each dough circle, leaving about a half-inch border.
3. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press down firmly along the edges to seal the casadiella.
4. Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Carefully place the casadiellas in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve the casadiellas immediately while they’re hot and the cheese is gooey and melted.

Tips and Tricks for Casadiella Perfection:

• Don’t overwork the dough: Overkneading can result in tough casadiellas. Knead just until the dough is smooth and elastic.
• Adjust the filling to your liking: Feel free to get creative with the filling! You can add other ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, spinach, or different types of cheese.
• Keep an eye on the heat: Casadiellas can burn easily if the heat is too high. Adjust the heat as needed to ensure they cook evenly and don’t become too dark.
• Serve with a side of salsa or dipping sauce: For an extra burst of flavor, serve your casadiellas with a side of your favorite salsa, aioli, or dipping sauce.

More Than Just a Recipe

Making casadiella is about more than just following instructions – it’s about experiencing the warmth and generosity of Spanish cuisine. This dish is perfect for sharing with loved ones, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a lively gathering with friends. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready for a culinary journey to Spain, all from the comfort of your own kitchen. Happy cooking!

Enjoying Casadiella

What are your favorite Spanish dishes? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below – we’d love to hear from you! And don’t forget to check out our other delicious recipes for more culinary inspiration.