Malian Honey-Sesame Cookies

Ingredients

While the Malian Honey-Sesame Cookies draw inspiration from the Korean Yakgwa, there are a few notable differences. The Malian version incorporates local ingredients and spices to adapt the recipe to Malian cuisine. Additionally, the Malian cookies are deep-fried instead of being baked, resulting in a different texture and flavor profile. We alse have the original recipe for Yakgwa, 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 (60ml) water 1/4 cup (60ml) water
• 1/4 cup (50g) sesame seeds 1/4 cup (50g) sesame seeds
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 4g, 0.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 19g, 6g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.01g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sesame seeds, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg.
2. 2.
   In a small saucepan, heat the honey and water over low heat until the honey is melted. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
3. 3.
   Pour the honey mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
4. 4.
   Knead the dough for a few minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. 5.
   Divide the dough into small portions and shape them into round cookies.
6. 6.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 180°C (350°F).
7. 7.
   Carefully drop the cookies into the hot oil and fry until they turn golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
8. 8.
   Remove the cookies from the oil and drain on a paper towel to remove excess oil.
9. 9.
   In a separate saucepan, heat the remaining honey over low heat until it becomes thin and syrupy.
10. 10.
    Dip each cookie into the honey syrup, ensuring they are fully coated.
11. 11.
    Place the cookies on a wire rack to cool and allow the honey syrup to set.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Sesame seeds — Toast the sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until they turn golden brown. This will enhance their nutty flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more pronounced flavor, you can add a pinch of ground cloves or cardamom to the dough.
• Make sure the oil is at the right temperature before frying the cookies to ensure they cook evenly and don't absorb excess oil.
• Allow the cookies to cool completely before dipping them in the honey syrup to prevent them from becoming too soft.

Serving advice

Serve the Malian Honey-Sesame Cookies as a delightful dessert alongside a cup of hot tea or coffee. They can also be enjoyed as a sweet snack throughout the day.

Presentation advice

Arrange the golden cookies on a platter and drizzle any remaining honey syrup over them for an enticing presentation. Sprinkle some extra sesame seeds on top for added visual appeal.