“You never get a second chance to make a first impression.” Depending on whom you ask, this legendary phrase was gifted to us by Oscar Wilde, Will Rogers or the advertising genius assigned to Head and Shoulders. If there’s an exception to this phrase, however, it might be Tierra Patagonia, because this is a hotel with such appealing architecture, design and surroundings that it’s almost as if you discover something new each time you look at it.
Located in Torres de Paine, Chile, right next to the Torres del Paine National Park’s Lake Sarmiento, this incredible and adventurous hotel is just flat out cool, and the same can be said for its sister properties, Tierra Atacama and Tierra Chiloé, as you can just look at them and feel an otherworldly sense of calm sophistication, as if you enter the lobby and are suddenly transported to the lone colony on another planet that has yet to be explored. Fortunately, that colony just so happens to offer an amazing spa, a variety of adventurous excursions for guests of all experience levels and creative meals sourced from local estancias. All while going to great lengths to promote sustainability and conservation.
The modern Patagonia cuisine served here might be a gastronomical adventure for some, and that’s always a good thing. The hotel’s culinary team offers us a glimpse into Tierra Patagonia’s distinct dishes with this recipe for a divine Chilean cheesecake.
Tierra Patagonia Chilean Cheesecake
Ingredients for the Cheesecake Filling:
- 240 grams cream cheese
- 200 grams whipped cream
- 150 grams powdered sugar
- 500 grams blueberries
- 5 gelatin sheets
How to Make It:
Mix powdered sugar with the cream cheese, then add the whipped cream and the previously hydrated gelatin.
Add pureed blueberries, mix and fill baking molds.
Ingredients for the Blueberry Covering:
- 300 grams puréed blueberries (you can caramelize them, turn them into a sauce)
- 100 grams powdered sugar
- 10 gelatin sheets
How to Make It:
Mix everything, making sure every ingredient is well incorporated. Pour mix into a baking mold. Freeze and then insert it on top of the previous preparation.
Ingredients for the Almond Base:
- 200 grams almond flour
- 100 grams powdered sugar
- 150 grams unsalted butter
- 300 grams flour
- 2 eggs
How to Make It:
Soften butter and mix with the powdered sugar, add the eggs and finally the two types of flours. When the mix is thoroughly combined, place it on a baking mold and into the oven for 8 minutes at 350 °F.
When the base is done, place the previous preparations on top. Enjoy!
