Biscotti with basil and thyme

Savory Basil and Thyme Cookies

I propose a unique and delicious recipe for cookies with basil and thyme, perfect for bringing a touch of aromatic flavor into your life. This dessert is not only simple and quick to prepare but also a healthy choice, full of nutrients. The basil and thyme cookies are wonderful as an appetizer or snack, alongside a cup of tea or coffee, and will surely surprise your loved ones.

Preparation Time
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Baking time: 15-20 minutes
- Total time: 35-40 minutes
- Number of servings: 20 cookies

Ingredients
- 125 g all-purpose flour
- 60 ml milk
- 1 egg yolk
- 50 g sugar
- 60 g butter (at room temperature)
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric (for color and a hint of health)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- A pinch of salt

Brief History
Herb cookies have a long tradition, inspired by the old recipes of our grandmothers, who used ingredients from their gardens. Basil and thyme not only bring a special taste but also have health benefits, being known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. These cookies are a modern reinterpretation of traditional recipes, combining classic flavors with a touch of creativity.

Step by Step – Making the Cookies

1. Preparing the ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature. This will help achieve a more uniform texture in the cookies. Measure the ingredients accurately so that the cookies turn out perfectly.

2. Mixing the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, turmeric, basil, thyme, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Use a spatula or whisk to mix the dry ingredients well, ensuring the herbs are evenly distributed.

3. Adding the wet ingredients: In the center of the dry mixture, make a well and add the egg yolk and softened butter, cut into small cubes. Start mixing with a fork or your hands until the mixture becomes homogeneous.

4. Incorporating the milk: Gradually add the milk while continuing to mix. It is important not to add all the milk at once to control the dough's consistency. The dough should be slightly sticky but pull away from the sides of the bowl.

5. Shaping the cookies: On a floured work surface, roll out the dough to about 1 cm thick. You can use a glass or a cutter to cut out cookies in various shapes. Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

6. Baking the cookies: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Bake the cookies for 15-20 minutes or until golden. Let them cool on a wire rack to maintain their crispy texture.

Practical Tips
- Vegan option: For a vegan version, you can replace the butter with margarine and the yolk with a mixture of 1 tablespoon of flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water (let sit for 10 minutes).
- Storage: The cookies keep well in an airtight container for up to a week, maintaining their crispy texture.
- Serving: These snacks are excellent alongside creamy cheese or a yogurt dip with herbs. You can serve them as an appetizer at a party or offer them as a healthy snack at the office.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I replace all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour? Yes, but the cookies will have a different texture and may require more milk to achieve the desired consistency.
- Can fresh herbs be used instead of dried? Of course! Use about twice as much fresh basil and thyme as the dried version.
- What other flavors can I add? You can experiment with herbs like oregano or rosemary, or add a pinch of black pepper for a more intense taste.

Nutritional Benefits
These cookies are a good source of complex carbohydrates due to the flour, and basil and thyme provide essential antioxidants. Additionally, the butter adds healthy fats, and turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Each cookie has approximately 70 calories, making it a perfect snack without being overly caloric.

Personalized Version
For a personal touch, you can add chopped nuts or sunflower seeds for extra crunch. Additionally, a simple yogurt glaze with lemon could transform these cookies into a sophisticated treat.

Basil and thyme cookies are more than just a snack – they are a culinary experience you can share with your loved ones. Their aromatic taste and crispy texture will make them a regular feature in your menu. So don’t hesitate, put on your apron and start your kitchen adventure!