Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1/2 cup orange blossom water
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/2 cup chopped dates
- 1/2 cup chopped dried apricots
Special Equipment Needed:
- Rolling pin
- 2-inch round cookie cutter
- 2-inch star-shaped cookie cutter
- Baking sheet
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together melted butter, oil, yogurt, orange blossom water, and sugar until combined.
4. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms.
5. Divide dough into two equal portions.
6. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion of dough until it is 1/4-inch thick.
7. Using the cookie cutters, cut out shapes from the dough.
8. Place shapes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
9. Bake for 15 minutes, or until golden brown.
10. Let cool before serving.
Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Temperature: 350°F
Serving Size: 24 cookies
Nutritional Information (per cookie):
Calories: 120
Fat: 8 g
Carbohydrates: 11 g
Protein: 2 g
Substitutions for Ingredients
- Plain yogurt can be substituted with Greek yogurt.
- Orange blossom water can be substituted with rose water.
- Walnuts can be substituted with almonds or pistachios.
- Dates can be substituted with raisins or dried cranberries.
- Dried apricots can be substituted with dried figs or dried cherries.
Variations:
- For a spicier version, add 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom to the dough.
- For a sweeter version, add 1/4 cup honey to the dough.
Tips and Tricks:
- For best results, use cold butter and yogurt.
- For a more intense orange blossom flavor, add an extra tablespoon of orange blossom water to the dough.
Storage Instructions:
Ma'amoul can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Reheating Instructions:
Ma'amoul can be reheated in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes.
Presentation Ideas:
Ma'amoul can be served in a decorative bowl or platter.
Garnishes:
Ma'amoul can be garnished with chopped walnuts, dates, and dried apricots.
Pairings:
Ma'amoul pairs well with tea or coffee.
Suggested Side Dishes:
Ma'amoul can be served with a side of fresh fruit or a salad.
Troubleshooting Advice:
If the dough is too dry, add 1 tablespoon of orange blossom water at a time until desired consistency is reached.
Food Safety Advice:
It is important to keep ma'amoul stored in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.
Food History:
Ma'amoul is a traditional Middle Eastern pastry that is often served during special occasions.
Flavor Profiles:
Ma'amoul has a sweet, nutty flavor with a hint of orange blossom.
Serving Suggestions:
Ma'amoul can be served as a dessert or snack.
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Region: Middle Eastern