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Old Gouda Canapé with Strawberry Salsa

Sep 19, '07 2:08 AM
for everyone

Since Arie Parikesit posted this recipe on his multiply page I knew that I had to try this recipe. The reason was this recipe is so simple, it looks terribly tempting and the combination is so unique as it mixes strawberries which is commonly used as desserts with spices that effectively changes it to a savory dish.

And just as I thought, the dish had all the five basic taste. It had the sweetness, sourness, bitterness, saltiness and even savoriness (umami). The strong taste of Gouda combined beautifully with the sweet tartness of strawberries plus the cumin and cayenne pepper added a certain oomph to it.

I asked Arie whether this dish would be a good dish to break the fast. He was uncertain as he said that this dish is better enjoyed with champagne or wine. As I didn't want to wait until the fasting month was over to try this dish & enjoy it with the proper beverages, I opted to just make it and enjoy with a hot cup of tea for "buka puasa". Lo and behold, it worked out just fine. I'm sure it would be great with champagne but I'll enjoy it with any beverages for now. Next time I'll try using other fruits as Arie suggested.

For the original recipe and to look at a more beautifully crafted dish go to Arie's page (http://ariep.multiply.com/recipes/item/4), but here's my modified and not so beautiful version. Thanks Rie for the inspiration.

Ingredients:
4 whole wheat rolls (or any kind of bread), halfed
12 fresh strawberries, diced
10 Basil leaves, julienned
125 gr Gouda cheese (or whatever cheese you have available), sliced thinly to cover the rolls
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
1/2 tsp cumin powder
1/2 tsp sugar
1 tsp balsamic vinegar (optional)
A dash of black pepper
A dash of salt

Directions:
1. For the strawberry salsa : mix diced strawberry with the basil, cayenne pepper, cumin powder, sugar, balsamic vinegar, black pepper and salt. Mix thoroughly and let the mixture stand at room temperature.
2. Place the sliced cheese over the bread and toast for 3-5 minutes until the cheese melts
3. Take the toasted bread out of the oven and evenly divide strawberry salsa over the toast. Enjoy!