Chebakia Recipe (Moroccan Sesame Cookies)

Shebakia Is A Traditional Moroccan Dessert Made With Semolina Dough, Honey, And Spices. It Is A Popular Treat During Ramadan And Other Special Occasions.

 Chebakia Recipe (Moroccan Sesame Cookies)

 INGREDIENTS:

•  500 grams all-purpose flour
•  100 grams toasted sesame seeds (plus extra for garnish)
•  50 grams ground almonds
•  1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
•  1/2 teaspoon ground anise seeds
•  1/2 teaspoon ground mastic (optional)
•  1/4 teaspoon salt
•  1 teaspoon baking powder
•  1/4 teaspoon saffron threads (optional)
•  1/4 cup orange blossom water
•  1/2 cup melted butter
•  1/4 cup olive oil
•  1 egg
•  1 tablespoon vinegar
•  Warm water (as needed)
•  Vegetable oil (for frying)
•  500 grams honey (warmed)

 INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Prepare the Dough:

   - In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, toasted sesame seeds, ground almonds, cinnamon, anise seeds, mastic (if using), salt, and baking powder. Mix well to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.

   - In a separate bowl, dissolve the saffron threads in the orange blossom water.

   - Add the melted butter, olive oil, egg, vinegar, and saffron-infused orange blossom water to the dry mixture. Mix until well combined.

   - Gradually add warm water to the mixture, kneading until you form a smooth, elastic dough. The dough should be soft but not sticky.

2. Shape the Chebakia:

   - Divide the dough into small balls, then roll each ball into a thin rectangle.

   - Use a pastry cutter to create 3 or 4 slits in the dough rectangle, leaving the edges uncut.

   - Carefully fold and twist the dough to create the characteristic chebakia shape. This involves threading one end of the dough through the slits and pulling it to form a flower shape.

3. Fry the Chebakia:

   - Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).

   - Fry the chebakia in batches until golden brown and crisp, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. Be careful not to overcrowd the fryer.

   - Once fried, drain the chebakia on paper towels to remove excess oil.

4. Coat in Honey:

   - While the chebakia is still warm, dip each piece into the warmed honey, ensuring they are fully coated.

   - Transfer the honey-coated chebakia to a wire rack or a plate to cool slightly.

5. Garnish and Serve:

   - Sprinkle additional toasted sesame seeds over the chebakia for garnish.

   - Allow the chebakia to cool completely before serving. 

Chebakia is traditionally enjoyed during Ramadan, often paired with a bowl of harira (Moroccan soup). This sweet, sticky, and fragrant treat is perfect for special occasions or whenever you want a taste of Moroccan tradition.

Chebakia: A Moroccan Ramadan Treat with Health Risks

Chebakia: A Sweet Tradition with Bitter Consequences

While Chebakia is an integral part of Moroccan culture, its consumption, even in small quantities, poses health risks, according to nutritionists who warn against its consumption.

These concerns stem from the preparation method of Chebakia, which involves deep-frying in oil, as well as its ingredients, which include white flour and other unhealthy substances. Additionally, the high sugar content in Chebakia poses a significant health risk, especially when consumed immediately after breakfast, as the body absorbs its harmful components rapidly. If eaten during the meal, it can cause indigestion.

The digestion process for Chebakia takes about 6 hours, leading to indigestion, lethargy, and reactive hypoglycemia, explaining why people often feel sleepy and sluggish after finishing their breakfast meal.

Despite the warnings from experts, Chebakia remains a staple on Moroccan Ramadan breakfast tables. However, the joy of consuming it diminishes upon realizing the severe health consequences associated with this type of processed food.

Key Points:

• Chebakia's deep-frying method and unhealthy ingredients make it a health hazard.

• Consuming Chebakia, especially after breakfast, can lead to indigestion, lethargy, and reactive hypoglycemia.

• Despite health warnings, Chebakia remains a beloved Ramadan tradition.

• Awareness of its health risks can influence consumption habits.