Algerian Almond Filled Glazed Cookies called Arayeche (Arabic العرايش)

ground meat

🥗Healthier: ground turkey

💰Cheaper: cooked lentils

Lentils provide protein while being more economical.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: vegetable oil

Vegetable oil is more affordable and has a neutral flavor.

spices

🥗Healthier: fresh herbs

💰Cheaper: dried spices

Dried spices are often less expensive and have a longer shelf life.

bread

🥗Healthier: whole grain bread

💰Cheaper: pita bread

Pita bread is often cheaper and can be a healthier option.

In a large bowl, put 3 cups of all-purpose flour, a pinch of salt, 1 teaspoon vanilla powder, and 2 tablespoons powdered sugar.

Add melted butter and mix until well incorporated.

Add about 1/4 cup orange blossom water and mix.

Gradually add water as needed until a very soft dough is obtained.

Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rest on the counter for at least 20 minutes.

Prepare the almond filling ingredients and set aside.

Divide the dough into small bowls, placing them in plastic wrap.

Work with one bowl at a time, using a rolling pin to roll out the dough.

Place a bowl of the almond filling in the center and shape it into a T-shape.

Seal the dough over the filling and shape the cookie.

Place three fingers between the three legs of the cookie and tilt the legs slightly clockwise or counterclockwise.

Place the cookies in a nonstick baking pan and bake in a 350°F heated oven for about 15 to 20 minutes.

Let the cookies cool completely while preparing the sugar glaze.

Dip the top of the cookies in the glaze and place them on a rack to dry out.

After about 5 minutes of drying, add more glaze for decoration.

Let the cookies dry out for a few hours, preferably overnight.

Use a knife to remove excess icing from the bottom and sides of the cookies.

Dust the cookies with edible luster dust for a glossy finish and add decorative flowers if desired.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary