Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 cup orange blossom water
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/4 cup sugar
Special Equipment Needed:
- Rolling pin
- Cookie cutters
- Baking sheet
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the melted butter, orange blossom water, and cold water.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to 1/4-inch thickness.
6. Cut out circles with a cookie cutter and place on a baking sheet.
7. Place a teaspoon of chocolate chips and chopped walnuts in the center of each circle.
8. Fold the dough over the filling and press the edges together to seal.
9. Sprinkle the tops with sugar and bake for 15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Temperature: 350°F
Serving Size: Makes 12 ma'amoul
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 200
Fat: 11g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 3g
Substitutions for Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: can be substituted with whole wheat flour
- Butter: can be substituted with coconut oil
- Orange blossom water: can be substituted with rose water
- Semisweet chocolate chips: can be substituted with dark chocolate chips
- Walnuts: can be substituted with pecans or almonds
Variations:
- Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the dough for a spiced flavor
- Substitute the chocolate chips and walnuts with a different filling such as dates, figs, or apricots
- Drizzle the ma'amoul with melted chocolate or a simple glaze
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the edges of the ma'amoul are sealed tightly to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking
- For a crispier texture, brush the ma'amoul with melted butter before baking
Storage Instructions:
Ma'amoul can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Ma'amoul can be reheated in the oven at 350°F for 5 minutes or in the microwave for 30 seconds.
Presentation Ideas:
Ma'amoul can be served on a platter with other Middle Eastern desserts such as baklava and kunafa.
Garnishes:
- Chopped walnuts
- Chopped pistachios
- Powdered sugar
- Chocolate sauce
Pairings:
- Turkish coffee
- Mint tea
- Cardamom tea
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Hummus
- Baba ghanoush
- Tabbouleh
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the ma'amoul are not baking evenly, rotate the baking sheet halfway through baking.
- If the ma'amoul are too dry, add a tablespoon of orange blossom water to the dough.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure all ingredients are fresh and not expired.
- Wash hands thoroughly before handling food.
Food History:
Ma'amoul is a traditional Middle Eastern pastry that is filled with dates, nuts, and spices. It is believed to have originated in the Ottoman Empire and is now popular in many countries in the Middle East.
Flavor Profiles:
- Sweet
- Nutty
- Aromatic
Serving Suggestions:
Ma'amoul can be served as a dessert or snack. They can also be served with tea or coffee.
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Region: Middle Eastern