Romanian-inspired Date Pastries

Ingredients

While the original Maltese Imqaret is typically made with a dough made from flour, water, and semolina, this Romanian-inspired version uses a flaky pastry dough. Additionally, the filling in the original recipe consists solely of dates, while this adaptation incorporates walnuts and warm spices to enhance the flavor profile. The deep-frying technique is also different, as the original Imqaret is usually baked. These modifications give the dish a unique Romanian twist while still maintaining the essence of the original Maltese treat. We alse have the original recipe for Imqaret, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup (50g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 1/4 cup (50g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/2 cup (120ml) cold water 1/2 cup (120ml) cold water
• 1 cup (200g) pitted dates, finely chopped 1 cup (200g) pitted dates, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup (60g) walnuts, finely chopped 1/2 cup (60g) walnuts, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 50g, 20g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and use your fingertips to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
2. 2.
   Gradually add the cold water to the flour mixture, mixing with a fork until the dough comes together. Knead the dough lightly until smooth, then cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, mix together the chopped dates, walnuts, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon until well combined.
4. 4.
   On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a rectangle about 1/8 inch thick. Cut the dough into smaller rectangles, approximately 3x4 inches in size.
5. 5.
   Place a spoonful of the date and walnut filling onto one half of each rectangle. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press the edges firmly to seal.
6. 6.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (180°C). Carefully place the pastries into the hot oil and fry until golden brown on both sides, approximately 3-4 minutes per side.
7. 7.
   Remove the pastries from the oil using a slotted spoon and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
8. 8.
   Serve the Romanian-inspired date pastries warm or at room temperature. They can be enjoyed on their own or dusted with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Dates — Ensure the dates are finely chopped to create a smooth filling.
• Walnuts — Finely chop the walnuts to evenly distribute their flavor throughout the filling.

Tips & Tricks

• For a twist, add a pinch of ground cloves or nutmeg to the date filling for extra warmth and depth of flavor.
• If you prefer a healthier alternative, you can bake the pastries instead of deep-frying them. Simply brush them with melted butter and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Serving advice

Serve the Romanian-inspired date pastries warm or at room temperature. They are delicious on their own, but you can also accompany them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.

Presentation advice

Arrange the date pastries on a platter and dust them with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. You can also garnish the plate with fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added visual appeal.