Savor the classic Turkish dessert, Şekerpare, a sweet semolina pastry that’s perfectly moist on the inside with a glistening syrupy exterior, and a hint of lemon.
Ingredients:
For the Syrup:
- 2 cups water
- 1 3/4 cups sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
For the Dough:
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 eggs (reserve one yolk for brushing)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup fine semolina
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
For the Topping:
- Ground pistachios for garnish
Instructions:
- Start by making the syrup. Combine water and sugar in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, then stir in the lemon juice. Simmer for 5 more minutes. Set aside to cool.
- For the dough, mix together the vegetable oil, two eggs (minus the reserved yolk), powdered sugar, semolina, baking powder, and vanilla extract in a large bowl.
- Gradually add flour, kneading until a smooth dough forms.
- Form the dough into walnut-sized ovals and place them on a parchment-lined baking tray. Brush with the reserved egg yolk and etch lines on each with a fork.
- Bake in a preheated 175°C (345°F) oven for about 25 minutes or until they have a golden hue.
- Once baked, pour the cooled syrup over the hot Şekerpare. Let them soak up the syrup and cool down.
- Garnish with ground pistachios before serving.
Enjoy the Şekerpare as a sweet end to a meal or with a strong Turkish tea or coffee. This dessert is a testament to the simple yet profound pleasures of Turkish baking. Afiyet olsun! 👩🏻🍳🍪
