Here's a gluten-free fusion version of a classic French pastry, reimagined with Japanese ingredients. These financiers are small, dense, and moist, with a thin, lightly golden crust. Wheat flour is replaced with rice flour (or gluten-free baking flour), and matcha tea powder is added, giving them a natural green color and a slightly bitter, vegetal flavor. These little financiers are topped with yuzu curd, and voilà! Enjoy!
Brown butter adds a roasted note that balances the sweetness. Matcha, meanwhile, complements the almond flour and gives the whole thing character. This individual portion bakes quickly, keeps well, and is perfect for an afternoon snack or dessert, especially when served with the yuzu curry. The recipe is simple, requires no special equipment, and can be adapted depending on the ingredients you have on hand.
Ingredients
Preparation
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Financier preparation
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Preheat the oven to 180°C.
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Melt the butter over medium heat until it turns a hazelnut color. Strain if necessary. Set aside.
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In a bowl, mix the almond flour, rice flour, icing sugar, salt and matcha (sifted).
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Add the unwhipped egg whites. Mix with a spatula.
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Incorporate the melted butter. The dough should be smooth.
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Pour the batter into lightly greased financier molds.
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Cook for 12 to 15 minutes. The edges should be golden brown.
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Allow to cool on a wire rack before coating.
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Preparing yuzu curd
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In a saucepan, mix the yuzu jam, sugar if used, and egg yolks.
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Add the cornstarch and whisk well.
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Heat over low heat, stirring constantly until thickened (5 to 8 minutes). Do not boil.
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Remove from heat and stir in the butter in pieces. Mix until melted.
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Optional: pass through a sieve for a smooth texture.
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Allow to cool before using.
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Assembly
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Using a small spoon or a piping bag, coat the tops of the cooled financiers with the yuzu curd.
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Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.
