Khajoor

Prep time: 20 mins (plus 20 mins resting) Cook time: 15 mins Total time: 55 mins Servings: 12 pastries Country of origin: Afghanistan Description: Khajoor are fried, date-shaped pastries made from spiced dough and lightly sweetened with cardamom. Presentation: Stacked on a bowl or tray, served warm or at room temperature with hot green tea. Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 cup granulated sugar 1/4 cup warm milk 3 tbsp melted ghee 1/2 tsp baking powder 1 tsp ground cardamom Oil for deep frying Step-by-step directions: Dissolve sugar in warm milk in a small bowl. Combine flour, baking powder, and ground cardamom in a mixing bowl, then rub in melted ghee. Pour in milk mixture gradually, kneading into a stiff dough; cover and rest for 20 minutes. Roll dough into thin ropes, cut diagonally into diamond pieces, and press against a clean textured surface. Heat oil in a pot to 350°F (175°C) and fry pieces for 4-5 minutes until golden brown. Drain on paper towels and let cool completely before serving. Optional variations: Toss warm pastries in powdered sugar for added sweetness. Cooking tips: Pressing dough against a textured surface creates ridges that help pastries cook crisply. Nutrition facts:

• Calories: 150 kcal

• Fat: 6g

• Carbohydrates: 22g

• Protein: 3g