Somali-style Sweet and Spiced Khapse

Ingredients

In this Somali adaptation of Khapse, we incorporate Somali flavors and ingredients to create a unique twist. The original Tibetan Khapse is typically made with butter, flour, sugar, and eggs. However, in the Somali version, we replace butter with ghee, which is commonly used in Somali cuisine. Additionally, we infuse the dough with Somali spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, and nutmeg, and add a touch of sweetness with honey or date syrup. We alse have the original recipe for Khapse, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (60g) ghee 1/4 cup (60g) ghee
• 1/4 cup (60ml) milk 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
• 1/4 cup (60ml) water 1/4 cup (60ml) water
• 1/4 cup (60ml) honey or date syrup 1/4 cup (60ml) honey or date syrup
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Oil, for deep frying Oil, for deep frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 35g, 10g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, ghee, milk, water, honey or date syrup, cardamom, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well until a smooth dough forms.
2. 2.
   Divide the dough into small portions and roll each portion into a thin rope-like shape.
3. 3.
   Shape the dough into desired shapes, such as knots or braids.
4. 4.
   Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer to medium-high heat.
5. 5.
   Carefully place the shaped dough into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy.
6. 6.
   Remove the fried khapse from the oil and drain on a paper towel to remove excess oil.
7. 7.
   Allow the khapse to cool before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ghee — Ghee adds a rich and buttery flavor to the khapse. If you don't have ghee, you can substitute it with clarified butter or vegetable oil.
• Honey or date syrup — Both honey and date syrup provide a touch of sweetness to the khapse. Choose whichever you prefer or have on hand.

Tips & Tricks

• Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the khapse to ensure a crispy texture.
• If the dough is too sticky, you can dust your hands with flour while shaping the khapse.
• Experiment with different shapes and sizes to add variety to your khapse.

Serving advice

Serve Somali-style Sweet and Spiced Khapse as a delightful snack or dessert during festive occasions or as a sweet treat with a cup of Somali tea.

Presentation advice

Arrange the khapse on a platter and sprinkle them with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. You can also serve them in small bowls or baskets for a more casual presentation.