El Aarayesh – Algerian Almond-Filled Pastries – Recipe

El Aarayesh – Algerian Almond-Filled Pastries – Recipe

El Aarayesh is a traditional Algerian dessert, known for its delicate dough, rich almond filling, and beautiful glaze that gives it an elegant and inviting look. This sweet treat is often prepared for special occasions and is as delightful to look at as it is to eat.

Servings: 6 to 8 people.

Ingredients:

 

For the dough:

• 3 cups flour

• ½ cup rose water (used in several stages)

• 1 cup melted butter

• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the filling:

• 1 cup sugar

• 3 cups ground almonds

• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

• A little rose water (enough to soften the mixture)

For the glaze:

• 3 egg whites

• 1 teaspoon vegetable oil

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• About 5 teaspoons rose water

Preparation:

1. Make the dough:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and 1 tablespoon vanilla. Mix well, then create a well in the center and pour in the melted butter. Stir and knead lightly until a cohesive dough forms, avoiding over-kneading. Cover the dough and let it rest in a warm place for about 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the filling:
   In another bowl, combine the ground almonds, sugar, and vanilla. Add a little rose water gradually, mixing until the filling becomes soft and pliable.

3. Shape the pastries:
   Sprinkle a little flour on your work surface and roll out the rested dough, keeping it thin but not too delicate. Cut into equal-sized circles. Place a spoonful of almond filling in the center of each circle, fold, and seal firmly so the dough doesn’t puff up while baking. Arrange the pastries on a floured baking tray.

4. Bake:
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F). Bake the pastries until the bottoms are golden, but avoid letting the tops brown. Remove from the oven and let them cool completely.

5. Prepare the glaze:
   In a deep bowl, beat the egg whites with a whisk until creamy. Add lemon juice, rose water, and vegetable oil, whisking lightly. Gradually add the powdered sugar while whisking until the mixture reaches a thick, creamy consistency.

6. Decorate:
   Once the pastries are cool, coat them evenly with the glaze. Leave them out overnight to dry completely.

Enjoy your beautifully glazed Algerian El Aarayesh!