Baked Goods > Cookies > International > Afghan

Afghan Anise and Orange Biscuits Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup semolina flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground anise seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)

Special equipment needed:
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper

Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, semolina flour, sugar, baking powder, ground anise seeds, and salt.
3. Add the vegetable oil, orange juice, and orange zest to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
4. Using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop the dough and roll it into balls.
5. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet and flatten them slightly with the back of a fork.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet.
8. Dust the biscuits with powdered sugar before serving.


Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 12-15 minutes
5. Temperature:
350°F (175°C)
Serving size:
Makes about 20 biscuits

Nutritional information:
Calories: 118
Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 1g
Sodium: 38mg
Sugar: 7g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use butter instead of vegetable oil.
- If you don't have semolina flour, you can use all-purpose flour instead.
- You can use lemon juice and zest instead of orange.

Variations:
- You can add chopped nuts or dried fruit to the dough.
- You can sprinkle the biscuits with cinnamon sugar instead of powdered sugar.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to flatten the biscuits slightly before baking to ensure even cooking.
- If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of orange juice at a time until it comes together.
- Don't overbake the biscuits, as they will become too hard.

Storage instructions:
Store the biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Reheating instructions:
To reheat the biscuits, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.

Presentation ideas:
Serve the biscuits on a platter or in a decorative tin.

Garnishes:
You can garnish the biscuits with a sprinkle of orange zest or chopped nuts.

Pairings:
The biscuits pair well with tea or coffee.

Suggested side dishes:
Serve the biscuits with fresh fruit or a cheese plate.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the biscuits are too dry, add a little more orange juice to the dough.
- If the biscuits are too soft, bake them for a few more minutes.

Food safety advice:
Make sure to wash your hands and all utensils before preparing the recipe. Store the biscuits in an airtight container to prevent contamination.

Food history:
Anise and orange are popular flavors in Afghan cuisine, and these biscuits are a traditional treat.

Flavor profiles:
The biscuits have a sweet and slightly tangy flavor from the orange juice and zest, with a subtle anise flavor.

Serving suggestions:
Serve the biscuits as a dessert or snack.

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Region: Afghan

Taste: Sweet, Citrusy, Anise, Nutty, Anise-Flavored