Melanesian Honey-Spiced Cookies

Ingredients

While the original Chebakia is a Moroccan pastry made with sesame seeds and orange blossom water, the Melanesian adaptation replaces these ingredients with a blend of aromatic spices and honey. The Melanesian version also incorporates deep-frying instead of baking, resulting in a different texture and flavor profile. We alse have the original recipe for Chebakia, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (60ml) honey 1/4 cup (60ml) honey
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (60ml) coconut milk 1/4 cup (60ml) coconut milk
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 3g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 21g, 10g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, honey, sugar, coconut milk, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. Mix until a smooth dough forms.
2. 2.
   Divide the dough into small portions and roll each portion into a thin sheet.
3. 3.
   Cut the dough into strips and shape them into intricate flower-like shapes.
4. 4.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 180°C (350°F).
5. 5.
   Fry the shaped dough in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
6. 6.
   Remove the cookies from the oil and drain on a paper towel to remove excess oil.
7. 7.
   Dust the cookies with powdered sugar while they are still warm.
8. 8.
   Allow the cookies to cool completely before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Coconut milk — Make sure to use full-fat coconut milk for a rich and creamy texture in the dough.
• Honey — Opt for a high-quality honey to enhance the flavor of the cookies.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough.
• If the dough is too sticky, dust your hands with flour while shaping the cookies.
• Serve the cookies with a drizzle of honey for an extra touch of sweetness.

Serving advice

Serve the Melanesian Honey-Spiced Cookies as a delightful snack or dessert. They pair well with a cup of tea or coffee.

Presentation advice

Arrange the cookies on a platter and sprinkle them with additional powdered sugar for an elegant presentation. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color.