Chebakia, also known as Griwech, is a traditional Moroccan sesame and honey pastry often made during Ramadan or special occasions. Shaped like flowers, deep-fried, and coated with honey, they are delightfully sweet and crunchy.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (125g) ground sesame seeds
- 1/2 cup (125g) ground almonds (optional)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground anise seeds (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground saffron (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup (60ml) orange blossom water
- 1/2 cup (125ml) melted butter
- 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup (60ml) white vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup (125ml) warm water (or as needed)
For Frying and Coating:
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- 2 cups (500ml) honey
- 2 tablespoons orange blossom water
- 1/2 cup sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
- In a large bowl, mix the flour, ground sesame seeds, ground almonds (if using), cinnamon, anise seeds, saffron, and salt.
- Add the orange blossom water, melted butter, vegetable oil, vinegar, and egg. Mix well.
- Gradually add warm water, kneading until you get a smooth and elastic dough. Cover with a clean cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. Shape the Chebakia
- Divide the dough into small portions and roll each one out thinly (about 1/8 inch).
- Cut the dough into rectangles (about 4×6 inches) and make four parallel slits inside each rectangle, leaving the edges intact.
- Carefully weave and fold the dough to form a flower shape.
3. Fry the Chebakia
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium heat.
- Fry the chebakia in batches until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
4. Coat with Honey
- Warm the honey with orange blossom water in a saucepan.
- Dip the fried chebakia into the warm honey, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Remove and place on a wire rack or tray to cool.
5. Garnish
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds while still sticky.
Tips
- Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
- Variations: Adjust the spices (cinnamon, anise, saffron) to your taste.
- Easier Folding: Watch a tutorial if folding the dough seems tricky—it’s easier with practice!
Chebakia is a delightful combination of crunch, sweetness, and warm spices. Serve it with Moroccan mint tea for a traditional experience!
