Desserts > Cookies > Middle Eastern Desserts

Orange-Scented Qurabiya Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup finely chopped pistachios

Special Equipment Needed:
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Add the flour, salt, and orange zest to the butter mixture and mix until just combined.
4. Gradually add the orange juice to the mixture, mixing until the dough comes together.
5. Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
6. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet and flatten them slightly with the back of a fork.
7. Sprinkle the chopped pistachios over the top of each cookie.
8. Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
9. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.


Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 12-15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Serving size:
This recipe makes approximately 24 cookies.

Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 120
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 11g
Protein: 1g
Sodium: 25mg
Sugar: 3g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Salted butter can be used instead of unsalted butter, but omit the salt in the recipe.
- Almonds or walnuts can be used instead of pistachios.

Variations:
- Lemon-Scented Qurabiya: Substitute lemon zest and juice for the orange zest and juice.
- Chocolate-Dipped Qurabiya: Melt chocolate and dip the cooled cookies halfway into the chocolate. Let the chocolate set before serving.

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the butter is softened before mixing it with the powdered sugar to ensure a smooth dough.
- Do not overmix the dough once the flour is added, or the cookies will be tough.
- Use a cookie scoop to ensure uniform cookie sizes.

Storage Instructions:
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

Reheating Instructions:
These cookies are best served at room temperature. If they have been stored in the refrigerator, allow them to come to room temperature before serving.

Presentation Ideas:
Arrange the cookies on a platter and sprinkle with additional chopped pistachios for a festive presentation.

Garnishes:
Sprinkle with additional chopped pistachios or dust with powdered sugar.

Pairings:
These cookies pair well with a cup of tea or coffee.

Suggested Side Dishes:
These cookies are a sweet treat and do not require any side dishes.

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of orange juice at a time until it comes together.
- If the cookies are too crumbly, the dough may have been overmixed. Try mixing the dough less next time.

Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to use clean hands and equipment when making the dough and baking the cookies.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container to prevent them from becoming stale.

Food History:
Qurabiya is a type of shortbread cookie that originated in the Middle East and is popular throughout the region. It is often served during special occasions and holidays.

Flavor Profiles:
These cookies have a buttery and slightly sweet flavor with a hint of orange and a crunchy texture from the chopped pistachios.

Serving Suggestions:
Serve these cookies as a sweet treat after a meal or as a snack with a cup of tea or coffee.

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Region: Iranian

Taste: Citrusy, Sweet, Fragrant, Moist, Nutty