On more than one occasion, we've splurged on some fancy crackers for backpacking and bicycling trips. Every time I enjoy these delicious (and expensive) crackers, I take a peek at the ingredients and think "I could make these!" So this weekend I finally set about it. The variety I first experimented with was thyme-lemon-sesame. Perhaps a little too savory for your every day cracker, but better than expected for the first go around. Next, rosemary and cracked pepper. As you can see, I'm gearing up for our party in a few months -- hoping to have crackers perfected by then.
Rustic Crackers
1 cup all purpose flour
1/2 tsp salt
1/8 tsp fresh cracked pepper
2 Tbl unsalted butter (cut into pieces)
1/4 c ice water
1 egg white, beaten
coarse salt
Flavorings:
lemon zest, fresh thyme, sesame seeds, rosemary, etc.
**Add a few tablespoons of one or more of the above for flavored crackers.
1) Heat oven to 350 degrees.
2) In a food processor, pulse dry ingredients (including any herbs or seasonings you are including) until mixed. Add butter and pulse until like coarse corn meal. Add water while processor is running and mix until dough just comes together (or remove mixture before adding water and add water by hand until dough is formed).
3) Roll out dough on lightly floured surface until 1/8 inch thick (important, thick crackers don't bake as well). Cut with desired shape and place on cookie sheet. Prick crackers with fork tines to keep them from puffing up.
4) Brush rounds with egg white (optional) and sprinkle with salt, or sesame seeds. Bake until firm, 20 - 25 minutes, checking often to avoid over baking. Transfer to wire rack to cool.
5) Enjoy with cheeses and think of all the money you've just saved.
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