Tianjin-style Almond Cookies

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional Norwegian Rosettbakkels are infused with the flavors of Tianjin cuisine. The original recipe is modified by incorporating Chinese spices and techniques, resulting in a unique fusion of flavors. The Tianjin-style Almond Cookies have a distinct taste and appearance that sets them apart from the traditional Norwegian version. We alse have the original recipe for Rosettbakkels, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder 1/2 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon almond extract 1 teaspoon almond extract
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 70 kcal / 293 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 2g, 0.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 11g, 4g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, Chinese five-spice powder, and salt.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, and almond extract.
3. 3.
   Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, whisking until a smooth batter is formed.
4. 4.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or a rosette iron.
5. 5.
   Dip the rosette iron into the hot oil for a few seconds to heat it up.
6. 6.
   Shake off any excess oil and dip the hot iron into the batter, making sure it coats the iron evenly.
7. 7.
   Immediately place the coated iron back into the hot oil and fry until the cookie turns golden brown.
8. 8.
   Carefully remove the cookie from the iron and drain on a paper towel.
9. 9.
   Repeat the process with the remaining batter.
10. 10.
    Once the cookies have cooled, dust them with powdered sugar before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Almond extract — Use high-quality almond extract to ensure a strong and authentic almond flavor in the cookies.
• Chinese five-spice powder — If you don't have Chinese five-spice powder, you can make your own by combining equal parts ground star anise, cloves, cinnamon, Sichuan peppercorns, and fennel seeds.

Tips & Tricks

• To achieve crispy cookies, make sure the oil is hot enough before dipping the rosette iron.
• Allow the batter to fully coat the iron to ensure even frying.
• Dust the cookies with powdered sugar just before serving to maintain their crispiness.
• Experiment with different shapes and sizes of rosette irons for a variety of cookie designs.
• Store the cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.

Serving advice

Serve Tianjin-style Almond Cookies as a delightful snack with a cup of Chinese tea or as a sweet treat after a Tianjin-inspired meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter and sprinkle some additional powdered sugar on top for an elegant presentation. Consider adding a sprig of fresh mint or a slice of orange as a garnish.