If you have taken a little bit of time to peruse our store, you’ll have noticed that we sell Maamoul cookies. This delectable little treats are filled with dates and have been a staple of the Eid celebrations since time immemorial.
To celebrate that fact, we’re going to take a closer look at the history of these famous cookies, so those of you who haven’t tried them before can understand just how important they are to so many people around the world.
The Early Story
The origins of Maamoul cookies are shrouded in mystery somewhat, but it is known that they have been important in religious holidays for hundreds of years. You’ll find the cookies in the Levantine region in particular. An ancient region in itself, the Levantine takes in much of the Middle East and has been a cultural hub for Islam for centuries. However, they also have significance for Christians in the region as well.
It all comes down to those famous periods of fasting – Lent and Ramadan. During these periods, observers of the relevant faith will fast, abstaining from some of their favourite foods for a period of time as a show of their faith.
Maamoul cookies have been the treat that so many have used to celebrate the end of the fasting period for centuries. Traditionally stuffed with date paste, more modern versions of these cookies also include pistachio and walnuts, depending on the consumer’s tastes. The cookie itself is similar to a shortbread biscuit, comprising of a buttery taste and coated in powdered sugar. They are a lovely bit of sweetness to introduce to the palate after so long spent abstaining from the types of food that you enjoy.
How They’re Made
The cookie dough is typically made using either semolina or wheat flour, though some chefs like to combine the two to offer the cookie an even richer texture. The baker will press this dough into special moulds, many of which are representative of the time of year that they’re consumed. The most traditional of these moulds are made using wood, though many people use more modern metal moulds these days.
As mentioned, they’re usually filled with a date paste, offering them a touch of sweetness while also keeping the cookies healthy. Yes, these are cookies that you can enjoy without the guilt that often comes with having one too many of your favourite confectionary. Some bolster this date filling by using extra flavours, such as orange blossom or rosewater, to give the cookie an even more interesting taste.
After that, it’s just a case of baking the cookies until they’re ready to be served.
Our Maamoul Cookies
Here at Jubbas, we offer a range of Maamoul cookies for your tasting pleasure. Priced at less than £3, these cookies come in a choice of traditional of whole wheat varieties, the latter of which proves perfect for those of you who are watching your figures. They’re the perfect choice for anybody who is unable to make their own cookies and we recommend them to anybody who is preparing for the end of Ramadan.
