Inuit-Inspired Cornmeal Cookies

Ingredients

Inuit-Inspired Cornmeal Cookies are adapted from the Italian dish "Paste di meliga." While the original Italian recipe uses wheat flour, this Inuit-inspired version replaces it with cornmeal, which is a staple in Inuit cuisine. The use of honey instead of sugar adds a touch of sweetness while staying true to the natural ingredients commonly found in Inuit cooking. The flavors and textures have been adjusted to suit the preferences and availability of ingredients in Inuit cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Paste di meliga, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (240g) cornmeal 2 cups (240g) cornmeal
• 1 cup (240ml) water 1 cup (240ml) water
• 1/2 cup (120ml) honey 1/2 cup (120ml) honey
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 6g, 3.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 16g, 5g
• Protein: 1g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2.
   In a saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Slowly add the cornmeal while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
3. 3.
   Remove the saucepan from heat and let the cornmeal mixture cool for a few minutes.
4. 4.
   In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and honey until well combined.
5. 5.
   Add the salt and baking powder to the cornmeal mixture and mix well.
6. 6.
   Gradually add the cornmeal mixture to the butter and honey mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
7. 7.
   Take small portions of the dough and shape them into round cookies. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie.
8. 8.
   Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the cookies turn golden brown around the edges.
9. 9.
   Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on a wire rack before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cornmeal — Make sure to use fine cornmeal for a smoother texture in the cookies.
• Honey — Use a good quality honey to enhance the flavor of the cookies.

Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, you can add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the dough.
• If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can drizzle some additional honey on top of the cookies after they have cooled.
• Experiment with adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm and aromatic twist.

Serving advice

Serve these Inuit-Inspired Cornmeal Cookies as a delightful treat with a cup of warm tea or hot chocolate. They are perfect for enjoying during cold winter days or as a sweet snack any time of the year.

Presentation advice

Arrange the cookies on a rustic wooden platter or a traditional Inuit-inspired serving dish. Dust them with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.