Soft and Fluffy Ghriba for Eid Celebrations
Ghriba is a beloved traditional sweet in many Arab cultures, especially during festive occasions like Eid. This recipe will guide you in making soft and fluffy ghriba that will delight your guests.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 cup of powdered sugar
- 1 cup of unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup of ground almonds (or any nuts of your choice)
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the ground almonds, vanilla extract, and mix well.
- In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, stirring until combined.
- Form small balls of dough and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Lightly flatten each ball with your fingers.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the bottoms are slightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- 1. Can I use different nuts in this recipe?
- Yes, you can substitute ground almonds with ground pistachios or walnuts, depending on your preference.
- 2. How can I store leftover ghriba?
- Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- 3. Can this recipe be doubled?
- Absolutely! You can easily double the ingredients to make a larger batch for gatherings.
- 4. What should I do if the dough is too sticky?
- If the dough is sticky, you can chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
- 5. Can I freeze ghriba?
- Yes, you can freeze baked ghriba in an airtight container for up to three months. Just thaw and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
- 6. What’s the origin of ghriba?
- Ghriba has its roots in North African cuisine, particularly in Moroccan and Algerian cultures.
- 7. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
- While butter is recommended for the best flavor and texture, margarine can be used as a substitute.
- 8. How can I make my ghriba more flavorful?
- You can add a teaspoon of orange blossom water for a fragrant touch or incorporate spices like cinnamon for added depth.
