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MoroccanAuthentic Cuisine

Fekkas

Serves 30 Pastry vegetarian, Breads & Pastry

Fekkas

Fekkas, a beloved Moroccan treat, are the country's answer to biscotti. These twice-baked anise biscuits find their place at tea time, when they are savored alongside a steaming glass of mint tea. Originating from a tradition of preserving baked goods for longer enjoyment, these crispy delights are sliced and dried to perfection.

The anise seeds lend a gentle licorice aroma, while almonds and raisins add a delightful texture and sweetness to each bite. With a satisfying crunch, Fekkas offer a harmonious blend of flavors that complement the warm, soothing notes of tea. They are not merely a snack but a moment of indulgence, best enjoyed at a leisurely pace.

Ingredients

  • 400 g (14 oz)flour
  • 120 g (4 oz)sugar
  • 2eggs
  • 80 g (3 oz)almonds
  • 60 g (2 oz)raisins
  • 2 tspanise
  • 1 tspbaking powder

Method

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 400 g (14 oz) of flour, 120 g (4 oz) of sugar, 2 tsp of anise, and 1 tsp of baking powder. Mix these dry ingredients thoroughly with a whisk to ensure even distribution of the baking powder and anise, which will flavor the dough and help it rise slightly.
  2. In a separate bowl, beat 2 eggs until they are well combined. Add the beaten eggs to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough begins to form. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
  3. Coarsely chop 80 g (3 oz) of almonds and add them along with 60 g (2 oz) of raisins to the dough. Knead the mixture gently with your hands until the almonds and raisins are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
  4. Divide the dough into two equal portions. On a lightly floured surface, roll each portion into a log about 3 cm (1 inch) in diameter. Place the logs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between them to allow for spreading.
  5. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the logs for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are set and firm to the touch. The logs should be lightly golden and have a slightly cracked surface. Remove them from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.
  6. Once the logs are cool, use a sharp serrated knife to slice them into thin pieces, about 1 cm (1/2 inch) thick. Arrange the slices in a single layer on the baking sheet, cut side down.
  7. Return the slices to the oven and bake them again at 180°C (350°F) for another 10-15 minutes, or until they are dry and a pale golden color. The slices should be crisp to the touch and have a light, toasted aroma.
  8. Allow the Fekkas to cool completely before storing them in an airtight tin. To enjoy, dunk the biscuits in a cup of mint tea, letting them absorb the tea slightly before taking a bite.
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From the cookbook

Authentic Moroccan Cuisine

This recipe is from Authentic Moroccan Cuisine by Yassine Sbiti — the Moroccan volume in the ComidaTime International Cuisines series.