Home Cook Together. Celebrate Life.

Vigilantes

Serves 16 Pastry vegetarian, Breads & Pastry

Vigilantes

Vigilantes, a staple of the panadería, are the slender, sweet siblings of the beloved medialuna. Named whimsically after a policeman's baton, these pastries are a nod to Argentina's knack for infusing everyday life with a touch of humor. They make their appearance alongside morning coffee or as an afternoon indulgence, offering a moment of sweet respite in the bustling rhythm of the day.

Biting into a vigilante reveals a tender dough, reminiscent of its crescent-shaped cousin, yet distinct in its elongated form. The optional strip of quince paste, or dulce de membrillo, adds a subtle, fruity tang that complements the glazed surface, creating a delicate balance of flavors. Each pastry invites a gentle pause, a sweet interlude in the day.

Ingredients

  • doughsame as medialunas, for 16 pieces
  • dulce de membrillostrips, optional
  • syrupto glaze

Method

  1. Begin by rolling out the dough, which is the same as used for medialunas, on a lightly floured surface. Aim for a rectangular shape about 1/4 inch thick. This thickness ensures the pastries will bake evenly and have a tender crumb.
  2. Once rolled, use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter to slice the dough into long batons, approximately 1 inch wide and 6 inches long. If you are using dulce de membrillo, lay a thin strip along the center of each baton, pressing gently so it adheres to the dough.
  3. Arrange the batons on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each piece to allow for expansion. Cover them with a clean kitchen towel and let them proof in a warm, draft-free area until they have visibly puffed up, which should take about 30 to 45 minutes. The dough should feel slightly springy to the touch.
  4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while the dough is proofing. Once proofed, place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the pastries until they turn a light golden brown, which should take about 15 to 20 minutes. The pastries should have a slight sheen and a firm, but not hard, exterior.
  5. Remove the pastries from the oven and immediately brush them with syrup to glaze. This will give them a glossy finish and a touch of sweetness, enhancing their flavor and appearance.
  6. Allow the vigilantes to cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve them warm or at room temperature with a cup of coffee, enjoying the contrast of the soft, sweet dough and the optional quince filling.