Fekkas: Traditional Sweet Biscuits with Almonds and Anise
Fekkas, a delightful traditional dessert hailing from Mediterranean cuisine, is a perfect combination of crunch and flavor, making it a beloved treat in many households. These crispy almond and anise biscuits are flavored with orange blossom water and a touch of coffee, giving them a distinct yet comforting aroma. They are perfect for serving at gatherings or enjoying with a warm cup of tea or coffee. This recipe yields 80 pieces of Fekkas, each packed with a unique blend of flavors.
Ingredients for Fekkas (Makes 80 pieces)
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 500g |
| Eggs | 160g |
| Sugar | 150g |
| Rice oil | 80g |
| Almonds (soaked) | 100g |
| Raisins | 50g |
| Sesame seeds | 30g |
| Anise seeds | 5g |
| Baking powder | 7g |
| Fine salt | 1 pinch |
| Orange blossom water | 2 tbsp |
| Instant coffee powder | 2 tsp |
| Egg yolk (for brushing) | 1 |
Directions for Making Fekkas
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Prepare the Almonds:
- Start by soaking the almonds in cold water for about 10 minutes. Once they are softened, peel off the skins. Set aside for later use.
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Toast the Sesame Seeds:
- In a dry pan, toast the sesame seeds over low heat until they are lightly golden and fragrant. Set them aside to cool.
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Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs until light and frothy. Add the sugar, followed by the anise seeds, and mix well to combine. Next, incorporate the rice oil, followed by the raisins and the soaked almonds. Stir gently with a fork to ensure all ingredients are well mixed.
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Sift and Combine the Dry Ingredients:
- Sift the baking powder with the flour in a separate bowl. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, one spoonful at a time, mixing with the fork as you go. Continue until the dough becomes too stiff to mix with a fork.
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Knead the Dough:
- Transfer the dough onto a clean, floured surface and knead with your hands until it forms a soft, smooth dough. Once kneaded, shape the dough into a log (filone) shape. Place the log on a tray lined with parchment paper, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for about 30 minutes.
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Prepare the Egg Wash:
- While the dough chills, whisk the egg yolk in a small bowl. Add the orange blossom water and mix well. Set this egg wash aside for later.
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Shape the Fekkas:
- After 30 minutes, remove the dough from the fridge and divide it into four equal parts. Take each portion and gently roll it into a log shape. Use a fork to create decorative lines or patterns on the surface of each log.
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Bake the Fekkas:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Brush each dough log with the prepared egg wash, then place the logs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the Fekkas are golden brown and firm to the touch.
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Cool and Slice:
- Remove the Fekkas from the oven and allow them to cool completely at room temperature for at least 12 hours or overnight. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to develop and the texture to firm up.
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Slice and Serve:
- Once the Fekkas have rested, slice them into 1 cm thick pieces using a sharp, smooth knife. Arrange the slices on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Optionally, you can toast them in the oven for an extra crunch. Serve these crunchy, sweet biscuits with a hot drink, and enjoy the delightful flavors of the Mediterranean!
Serving Suggestions:
These Fekkas are perfect for any occasion. Serve them as a dessert after a hearty meal, offer them as snacks at gatherings, or enjoy them on a cozy afternoon with tea or coffee. Their crunchy texture and aromatic flavors are sure to please everyone!
Note: Fekkas can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks, retaining their crunch and flavor.
