As Easter approaches, many cultures celebrate the Lenten season with traditional dishes that reflect the spirit of fasting and abstinence. Among these culinary gems are the delectable "quaresimali" or Lenten almond biscuits, a beloved Italian confection that has captivated taste buds for generations. Originating in the coastal regions of Italy, these exquisite cookies embody the essence of simplicity, relying on humble ingredients to create a symphony of flavors and textures. With their delicate, crumbly texture and subtle sweetness, quaresimali biscuits are a testament to the power of culinary restraint, offering a moment of pure indulgence without the burden of guilt. Join us as we embark on a culinary journey, uncovering the secrets behind these Lenten treasures and exploring the variations that make them so unique and cherished.
Here are our top 2 tried and tested recipes!
QUARESIMALI (LENTEN ALMOND BISCUITS)
Steps:
- Pre-heat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
- Toast almonds in jelly roll pan for 10 minutes. Let cool. Grind finely 1/4 of the almonds, mix with 1/4 cup of the granulated sugar and set aside.
- Grind coarsely the remaining 3/4 almonds and set aside. In a large bowl stir together flour, remaining 3/4 cup sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon and baking powder. Add the butter and stir until all ingredients are combined.
- Stir in coarsely ground almonds and the 2 of the eggs, then knead the dough in the bowl until all ingredients are combined. Divide dough in half.
- Form each half into a rectangle 15 X 4 inches. Transfer rectangles to baking sheets which have been buttered and floured. Brush rectangles well with 1 egg combined with 2 tablespoons of milk. Sprinkle with reserved almond/sugar mixture. Bake them in the upper third of the oven (375 degrees F - 190 degrees C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and skewer comes out clean.
- Cut rectangles crosswise into slices 3/4 inch thick. Let stand 15 minutes in the turned-off oven. Transfer to racks and let cool thoroughly.
- Store airtight.
QUARESIMALI (LENTEN ALMOND BISCUITS)
An Italian biscotti - very crunchy.
Provided by Rosina
Categories World Cuisine Recipes European Italian
Yield 18
Number Of Ingredients 9
Steps:
- Pre-heat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
- Toast almonds in jelly roll pan for 10 minutes. Let cool. Grind finely 1/4 of the almonds, mix with 1/4 cup of the granulated sugar and set aside.
- Grind coarsely the remaining 3/4 almonds and set aside. In a large bowl stir together flour, remaining 3/4 cup sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon and baking powder. Add the butter and stir until all ingredients are combined.
- Stir in coarsely ground almonds and the 2 of the eggs, then knead the dough in the bowl until all ingredients are combined. Divide dough in half.
- Form each half into a rectangle 15 X 4 inches. Transfer rectangles to baking sheets which have been buttered and floured. Brush rectangles well with 1 egg combined with 2 tablespoons of milk. Sprinkle with reserved almond/sugar mixture. Bake them in the upper third of the oven (375 degrees F - 190 degrees C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and skewer comes out clean. Cut rectangles crosswise into slices 3/4 inch thick. Let stand 15 minutes in the turned-off oven. Transfer to racks and let cool thoroughly. Store airtight.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 307 calories, Carbohydrate 38.7 g, Cholesterol 36.2 mg, Fat 14.9 g, Fiber 3.2 g, Protein 7.6 g, SaturatedFat 2.4 g, Sodium 43.7 mg, Sugar 24.3 g
Tips:
- Use high-quality ingredients. This will make a big difference in the taste of your biscuits.
- Make sure your butter is cold. This will help the biscuits to be flaky.
- Don't overmix the dough. Overmixing will make the biscuits tough.
- Chill the dough before baking. This will help the biscuits to hold their shape.
- Bake the biscuits in a preheated oven. This will help them to rise evenly.
- Let the biscuits cool completely before serving. This will help them to set.
Conclusion:
Quaresimali biscuits are a delicious and easy-to-make Italian cookie that is perfect for Lent. They are made with simple ingredients and have a delicate almond flavor. These biscuits are a great way to use up leftover egg whites and they can be stored for up to a week. So next time you are looking for a sweet treat, give these Quaresimali biscuits a try. You won't be disappointed!
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