Koulourakia Chiotika (biscuits from the island of Chios)

Name: Koulourakia Chiotika (biscuits from the island of Chios)
Ingredients: 115 g unsalted butter; 115 g sugar; 2 eggs; 1 teaspoon baking soda dissolved in 2 tablespoons of milk; a quarter teaspoon mastic; 500 g flour with baking powder incorporated; 1 egg yolk mixed with 1 tablespoon of water for greasing.

Dessert - Koulourakia Chiotika (biscuits from the island of Chios) by Eufrosina B. - Recipia

Koulourakia Chiotika Cookies: Delicacies from Chios Island Koulourakia Chiotika cookies are a culinary treasure from the Greek island of Chios, filled with flavor and tradition. These cookies, with a crunchy texture and a subtle mastic flavor, are perfect to be enjoyed alongside a cup of tea or coffee. Mastic, the secret ingredient of this recipe, gives the cookies a hint of freshness, reminiscent of pine forests and Mediterranean aromas. Get ready to discover how to create this delicacy at home! Total preparation time: 45-50 minutes Preparation time: 15 minutes Baking time: 15-20 minutes Number of servings: 24 cookies Necessary ingredients for Koulourakia Chiotika: - 115 g unsalted butter, at room temperature - 115 g sugar - 2 large eggs - 1 teaspoon baking soda dissolved in 2 tablespoons of milk - 1/4 teaspoon mastic (powdered) - 500 g flour, with baking powder incorporated - 1 egg yolk mixed with a tablespoon of water for brushing - Optional: sesame seeds, for decoration Preparation of Koulourakia Chiotika cookies: Step 1: Preparing the ingredients Start by bringing all the ingredients to room temperature, especially the butter and eggs, to facilitate mixing. Mastic, a special ingredient, is usually found in natural product stores or specialty Greek shops. Step 2: Creaming butter and sugar In a large bowl, use a mixer to beat the softened butter together with the sugar. Continue mixing until the mixture becomes creamy and airy. This step is essential for achieving fluffy and delicious cookies. Step 3: Adding the eggs Add the eggs one at a time, continuing to mix well between additions. Between each egg, add a tablespoon of flour to avoid lumps. This simple trick will ensure a smooth texture of the dough. Step 4: Incorporating the dry ingredients Stop the mixer and add the baking soda dissolved in milk, as well as the powdered mastic. Gently mix with a spatula. Then, start incorporating the flour gradually until you obtain a dough that is easy to shape. Don’t rush, this process will take a little time, but the result is worth it. Step 5: Shaping the cookies Once the dough is ready, take a small portion and shape the cookies into the desired forms. You can opt for classic shapes, such as spirals, or experiment with creative shapes. Place the cookies on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving space between them as they will expand during baking. Step 6: Brushing and decorating Before placing them in the oven, brush the cookies with the egg yolk and water mixture. If desired, you can sprinkle sesame seeds on top for added crunch and a more attractive appearance. Step 7: Baking Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the cookies for 15-20 minutes, or until they become golden. Be careful, as the baking time may vary depending on the oven. Once they are ready, let them cool slightly on the tray before transferring them to a rack to cool completely. Serving and storing Koulourakia Chiotika cookies are delicious both warm and at room temperature. You can serve them alongside a cup of Greek coffee or a fragrant tea. These delights keep well in a metal box, away from moisture, for a few weeks, making them ideal for gifting or enjoying during moments of indulgence. Nutritional benefits These cookies contain simple yet nutritious ingredients. The butter provides healthy fats, and the eggs are an excellent source of protein. Mastic, in addition to its unique flavor, has beneficial properties for digestion. However, it is important to consume them in moderation, considering they are sweet. Personalized version If you want to add a personal touch to your recipe, you can experiment with flavors like vanilla or cinnamon. You can also replace some of the flour with cocoa to make chocolate cookies. This adaptation will give a new dimension to the classic recipe. Frequently asked questions: 1. Can I use mastic in another form? Yes, mastic can be found in granule or paste form. Make sure to grind it well before adding it to the dough. 2. How can I make the cookies less sweet? You can reduce the amount of sugar if you prefer a less sweet taste. But keep in mind that this may affect the texture of the cookies. 3. What can I do with leftover cookies? These delights are excellent for use in various combinations, such as crumbles or in desserts with ice cream. 4. Can I add other ingredients? Of course! Dried fruits, nuts, or chocolate are delicious additions that can transform the traditional recipe into a modern variant. In conclusion, Koulourakia Chiotika cookies are more than just a simple recipe; they are a window into the culture and traditions of an island full of mystery and beauty. With every bite, you will feel the Mediterranean flavors and bring a piece of Greece into your kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and let yourself be carried away by the magic of cooking!