Take a deep breath before entering the room when you're carrying a platter of this party fare: you're sure to be surrounded by a crowd of enthusiastic nibblers eager to discover the source of that delicious aroma!
Extracted from the 4th Printing in 1986 of Albertina's A Collection of Recipes, this classic recipe never ceases to be the "whoa - what is this" appetizer of any event. Yes, it may seem a little time-consuming to prepare, but the increase in your culinary acclaim will likely be worth the effort!
Since 1907, Albertina's (also known as the Albertina Kerr Center) has been dedicated to providing assistance and support to people who face developmental disabilities and mental health challenges with a mission to support families and give children a reason to smile. Visit Albertina Kerr in their historic Old Kerr Nursery Building located at 424 NE 22nd Avenue in Portland, and you'll discover Albertina's (a unique restaurant which consistently gathers rave reviews), and small shops populated with antiques and collectibles, gently used and new clothes, accessories, home goods, along with vintage and fine jewelry, scarves, purses, leather goods and artwork. Plan to spend the afternoon here, lunching and shopping - and what a great way to while away an afternoon: treating and pampering yourself while supporting those who are most vulnerable.
If you've had the good fortunate to have previously dined at Albertina's and wished you had the recipe for their famous "Cheesecake in a Jar", wish no longer. The recipe was published in the June 4, 2013 issue of The Oregonian. It's a real keeper.
As Albertina's website says,
When you eat lunch with us, you earn your wings in Kerr's Army of Angels. All proceeds and tips from the Albertina's special events help support the work of Albertina Kerr, which strengthens Oregon families and communities by helping children and adults with developmental disabilities and mental health challenges - empowering them to live richer lives.
Call 503-231-0216 to make your reservation for a very enjoyable luncheon or Sunday brunch.
Oh, and in case you are wondering about the recipe's title, 'sigara' is Turkish for cigarette.
Morels are the secret ingredient in this appetizer.
Albertina's Filo 'Sigara'
1 pound filo leaves
1 pound melted, drawn butter
- Unfold the filo leaves and, using a very sharp knife, cut the short side into thirds and the long side into fourths. Remove 3 individual leaves. Cover the remaining filo with a damp cloth to avoid drying.
- Brush each leaf with melted butter and stack one of top of each other.
- Place a scant teaspoon of the mushroom filling the long way of the 'sigara', leaving 1/2 inch around the edges.
- Fold the filo over the filling, also folding end edges in 1/2 inch.
- Butter the two long folds and continue rolling to a cigar or cigarette shape.
- Place rolls on baking sheets. Bake at 375 degrees for 15 minutes or until golden.
NOTE: Hors d'oeuvres can be frozen unbaked, then baked at 375 degrees for 17 minutes whenever the occasion arises.
Mushroom Filling
1 pound mushrooms, chopped (4 cups packed) - we often use a combination of wild mushrooms that includes rehydrated morels
1 teaspoon salt
Freshly ground pepper, to taste
1/2 teaspoon dill weed
8 ounces cream cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup plain yogurt
1 cup fine bread crumbs
1/4 cup finely chopped parsley
2 green onions, finely chopped, including some green tops
Juice from 1 lemon
- Steam mushrooms and drain. Discard liquid.
- Cut cream cheese into hot mushrooms, tossing until cheese melts.
- Add remaining ingredients. Mix well.