There are lots of themes in cuisine that run through much of Southern Europe, North Africa, the Middle and Near East. The conquering of lands and the migrations of people shared new recipes across cultures.
These are very similar to Greek Koulourakia, a biscuit associated with Greek Easter but popular year round that uses orange instead of the lemon in this Algerian version. Straightforward to make, they disappear fast when the boys have friends over.
Twabaa – Algerian Lemon & Olive Oil Cookies
Ingredients:320g plain flour210g sugar105ml olive oil3 eggsZest of 1 lemon1½ tsp vanilla extract1 tsp baking powderPinch of salt
For the egg wash:1 egg½ tsp orange blossom waterSugar to sprinkle
Method:Preheat oven to 160c (fan). Line 2 baking trays with parchment paper.
In a large bowl beat the eggs and sugar together until light and pale in colour. Mix the olive oil, vanilla and lemon zest and slowly beat this into the egg mixture.
In a large bowl mix the flour, baking powder and salt, then add this into the egg mixture beating until all is only just combined, (don’t overbeat).
Scoop out 20g portions and roll into balls placing on the prepared tray about 5cms distance apart from each other and repeat until all the mixture is finished. Using the circular handle of a wooden spoon wet the end and then press the end through the centre of the dough ball turning it to expand the size to appx 1½cms. Wet the handle after every 2 holes.
In a small bowl beat the egg with the orange blossom water and brush this over each cookie, then sprinkle a little sugar over each.
Place in the oven for appx 15 mins.
The cookies will be slightly golden and hard to the touch. Once ready remove from the oven and allow to cool.
Enjoy.