Baked Goods > Cookies > Afghan

Afghan Orange and Cardamom Biscuits Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar, for dusting

Special equipment needed:
- Mixing bowl
- Pastry cutter or fork
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Rolling pin
- Cookie cutter (optional)

Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, cardamom, and salt.
3. Add the chilled butter to the dry ingredients and use a pastry cutter or fork to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the orange juice, orange zest, egg, and vanilla extract.
5. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until a dough forms.
6. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to 1/4 inch thickness.
7. Use a cookie cutter or knife to cut the dough into desired shapes.
8. Place the biscuits on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
9. Allow the biscuits to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Once cooled, dust the biscuits with powdered sugar.


Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 12-15 minutes
5. Temperature:
375°F (190°C)
Serving size:
Makes approximately 20 biscuits

Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 120
Total fat: 6g
Saturated fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 25mg
Sodium: 55mg
Total carbohydrates: 15g
Dietary fiber: 0g
Total sugars: 7g
Protein: 1g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Whole wheat flour can be substituted for all-purpose flour.
- Brown sugar can be substituted for granulated sugar.
- Ground cinnamon can be substituted for ground cardamom.

Variations:
- Add chopped nuts or dried fruit to the dough for added texture and flavor.
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled biscuits for a decadent treat.

Tips and tricks:
- Chill the butter before cutting it into the flour mixture for a flakier texture.
- Don't overwork the dough, as this can result in tough biscuits.
- Use a cookie cutter or knife to cut the dough into desired shapes.

Storage instructions:
Store the biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

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

Presentation ideas:
Arrange the biscuits on a platter and dust with powdered sugar for a simple yet elegant presentation.

Garnishes:
Garnish the biscuits with fresh orange slices or a sprig of mint for added color and flavor.

Pairings:
Serve the biscuits with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack.

Suggested side dishes:
These biscuits pair well with fresh fruit or a light salad.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of orange juice at a time until it comes together.
- If the biscuits are too tough, try reducing the baking time or adding a bit more liquid to the dough.

Food safety advice:
Be sure to wash your hands and all utensils thoroughly before and after handling raw dough.

Food history:
Biscuits are a popular treat in Afghanistan, often enjoyed with tea or coffee.

Flavor profiles:
These biscuits have a delicate orange flavor with a hint of warm cardamom spice.

Serving suggestions:
Serve these biscuits as a sweet treat for breakfast, brunch, or afternoon tea.

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Region: Afghan

Taste: Sweet, Spicy, Citrusy, Aromatic