Ghorabieh Recipe: Soft and Almond Persian Sweets

Ghorabieh is a soft and nutritious Iranian sweet that is very famous in the city of Tabriz and has a very special taste. Original Ghorabieh is also very popular in Lebanon and Syria and has different types that are made with walnuts, pistachios, and cocoa. Unlike common Western sweets, Qurabiya is light, not too sweet, and often fragrant with rose water or cardamom. This sweet is often used at parties and weddings, which is a sign of authenticity and simplicity, and at the same time kindness and sincerity.

Delicious pastries that are very soft and prepared with special flours, such as Bereshtuk and Baslogh are famous in Iran.

What is Ghorabieh?

Ghorabieh is a famous Middle Eastern sweet that is made from almond flour and has many properties, and melts easily in the mouth due to its softness and small size. This sweet is used as a reception in various ceremonies and is very popular with many people, and has an easy recipe.

Ingredients for Almond Ghorabieh

The following ingredients are needed to make about 25 cookies. You can roast the almond flour for 5 minutes in advance to make it more fragrant.

Golden tips about ingredients: Soft and Almond Sweets

• Use fresh almonds for a better taste. You can roast them a little to deepen the almond flavor.
• Use fresh egg whites to achieve a soft and suitable texture.

Step-by-step instructions Ghorabieh

Step 1: Preheat the oven

Preheat the oven to 160 degrees Celsius and cover the baking tray with greaseproof paper. Preheating the oven is essential for even baking and a soft texture.

Step 2: Combine the dry ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the almond flour, sugar, and salt until smooth. Use an electric mixer for a faster speed.

Step 3: Beat the egg whites

In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff. Then add the vanilla extract and rose water.

Step 4: Combine the dry and wet ingredients

Slowly fold the almond flour mixture into the beaten egg whites until the dough is smooth and sticky. Be careful not to overmix, or the cookies will be heavy.

Step 5: Shape the cookies

With your hands or a spoon, scoop small balls of dough and place on the baking sheet, pressing down lightly with the back of a spoon to flatten the surface slightly. Sprinkle with chopped pistachios to decorate.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden. Be careful not to overcook, as the inside should remain soft.

Step 7: Cool and serve

Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack and then serve with tea, coffee or on a dessert tray.

Ghorabieh Recipe: Soft Middle Eastern Almond Cookies

Ghorabieh is a traditional Middle Eastern cookie from Tabriz, Iran, made with almond flour, sugar, and egg whites. Soft, light, and fragrant with rose water, it’s a gluten-free treat perfect for tea time or festive occasions.

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Prep Time 18 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 25 cookies

Course: Cookies, Dessert

Cuisine: Iranian, Middle Eastern

Calories: 95

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup almond flour or finely ground almonds
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 egg white
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon rose water optional
• A pinch of salt
• Chopped pistachios or almonds for garnish
• Powdered sugar for garnish

Method

 

1. Preheat the oven to 160 C and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix almond flour, sugar, and salt until smooth.
3. In another bowl, beat the egg white until foamy, then add vanilla extract and rose water.
4. Gently fold the almond mixture into the egg white until you get a soft, sticky dough. Do not overmix.
5. Shape small balls of dough, place on the baking sheet, and flatten slightly. Garnish with chopped pistachios.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the edges turn lightly golden. Avoid overbaking.
7. Let the cookies cool on a wire rack, then dust with powdered sugar and serve.

Golden tips for perfect Almond Ghorabieh

1. Do not overcook: The secret to a soft texture is careful baking. It may look a little undercooked, but it will firm up as it cools.
2. Flavor variation: A little cinnamon, cardamom, or even a little cocoa can create a different flavor.
3. Egg white temperature: The egg whites should be at room temperature to combine better with the ingredients and make the texture light.
4. Decoration: Decorate with pistachios, almonds, or powdered sugar to make it both taste and look attractive.
5. Storage: Can be stored in a sealed container for up to 5 days. For a longer shelf life, store in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Advantages of Ghorabieh

• Soft and delicate texture: Unlike dry sweets, Ghorabieh is soft and melts in the mouth.
• Gluten-free: It is made from almond flour and is suitable for a gluten-free diet.
• Simple ingredients: Only a few ingredients are needed.
• Variety of flavors: You can diversify with rose water, orange juice, or spices.
• Cultural experience: Making and eating it will introduce you to Middle Eastern traditions.

Disadvantages of Ghorabieh

• Delicateness: The sweet is fragile and may break when moved or transported.
• Short shelf life: Its softness is maintained for only a few days; for long-term storage, it must be frozen.
• Not suitable for almond allergies: Those who are allergic to almonds cannot use it.
• Need for caution: Excessive stirring or overcooking will destroy the soft texture.

Serving suggestions Qurabiya

• Consume with mint tea, black tea, or coffee.
• Serve on a dessert tray with baklava, muumuu, and dried fruits.
• As a gift, its stylish packaging is attractive and perfect for special occasions.

Conclusion:

Ghorabieh is a delicious Middle Eastern pastry that combines simplicity, elegance, and unique taste. Its soft texture and rich almond flavor make it perfect for afternoon tea, celebrations, or a home-made snack.

Although it requires care and is a bit fragile, the end result is attractive and delicious. Whether for those who are introduced to Middle Eastern pastries for the first time or for those who are interested in almond and gluten-free pastries, Qurabiya brings a delicious experience. This almond pastry has a very easy recipe, so it is better to prepare it as soon as possible and share your thoughts with us.

Wikipedia

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Ghorabieh

1- What is Ghorabieh made of?

Ghorabieh is made with almond flour, sugar, and egg whites, sometimes flavored with rose water or vanilla.

2- Is Ghorabieh gluten-free?

Yes, since it’s made with almond flour instead of wheat flour, it’s naturally gluten-free.

3- How long does Ghorabieh stay fresh?

It stays soft and fresh for about 4-5 days in an airtight container, or up to 2 months if frozen.

4- Can I use other nuts instead of almonds?

Yes, you can substitute with ground pistachios or hazelnuts, but almonds give the most authentic flavor.

5- Why did my Ghorabieh turn out dry?

Most likely, they were overbaked. Ghorabieh should be removed from the oven as soon as the edges turn golden.