African Benne Wafers

African Benne Wafers Recipe - Authentic Central African Republic Snack

Region / culture: Africa, Central African Republic | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 6 minutes | Servings: 24 cookies

Introduction

Benne wafers are a delightful and traditional African treat that has found a special place in Southern cuisine, particularly in the Lowcountry region of South Carolina. These thin, crispy cookies are made with sesame seeds ("benne" is the Bantu word for sesame) and are known for their unique flavor and rich history. This recipe offers a simple way to create these delicious wafers at home, bringing a piece of African culinary heritage into your kitchen.

History

The history of Benne wafers dates back to the 17th century when enslaved Africans brought sesame seeds to the United States, particularly to the South Carolina and Georgia regions. These seeds were not only used as a food source but were also believed to bring good luck. Over time, the sesame seeds became a staple in Southern cuisine, and Benne wafers became a traditional recipe, especially during the holiday season. The recipe has been passed down through generations, evolving into the sweet, crispy cookies we enjoy today.

Ingredients

1 cup of toasted sesame seeds
0.75 cup of melted butter
1.5 cups of packed brown sugar
1 egg
1 tsp of vanilla extract
1 cup of all-purpose flour
0.25 tsp of salt
0.25 tsp of baking powder

How to prepare

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. If your sesame seeds are not toasted, place them on an ungreased baking sheet and toast for 10–12 minutes or until they turn light brown.
3. Be careful as they may burn easily, so watch closely to prevent this from happening.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, melted butter, egg, vanilla extract, flour, salt, baking powder, and toasted sesame seeds until well mixed.
5. Drop half-teaspoonfuls of the cookie dough onto a greased baking sheet, making sure to leave at least 2 inches of space between each cookie as they spread a lot during baking.
6. Bake at 375°F (191°C) for about 5–6 minutes or until the edges become light brown. The cookies will appear slightly puffy when taken out of the oven.
7. Allow the cookies to sit for 2–3 minutes.
8. They should have a flat shape.
9. Transfer the cookies to a wire rack and let them cool (be careful, as they will be crispy and crunchy!).
10. Store the cooled cookies in an air-tight container.

Variations

For a modern twist on the traditional recipe, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for added warmth and spice. Chocolate chips or a drizzle of dark chocolate can also be added for those who prefer a touch of chocolate with their cookies.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Benne wafers come out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Toast the sesame seeds carefully to avoid burning, as this can impart a bitter taste to your wafers.

- Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat on your baking sheet to prevent the wafers from sticking and to ensure easy removal.

- Keep a close eye on the wafers as they bake since they can quickly go from perfectly golden to burnt due to their thinness.

- Let the wafers cool completely before storing to maintain their crispiness.

Serving Suggestions

Benne wafers are perfect as a standalone snack or dessert. They can also be served alongside a cup of tea or coffee, making for a delightful afternoon treat. During the holiday season, they make excellent gifts when packaged in decorative tins or boxes.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in making Benne wafers is ensuring the sesame seeds are toasted to perfection, as this greatly influences the flavor of the final product. Additionally, mastering the art of baking them just until they are golden brown around the edges will ensure the perfect texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend. If you're avoiding dairy, coconut oil can be used in place of butter, though this may slightly alter the flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

The dough for Benne wafers can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before baking. This allows the flavors to meld together and can save time when preparing for events or gatherings.

Presentation Ideas

Present Benne wafers stacked on a beautiful plate or in a clear glass jar tied with a ribbon for a simple yet elegant display. They can also be packaged in cellophane bags with a decorative label detailing their history and significance.

Pairing Recommendations

Benne wafers pair wonderfully with sweet dessert wines or a robust cup of coffee. They also complement fruit salads and ice cream, adding a crunchy texture to these soft desserts.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store cooled Benne wafers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They do not require reheating, but if they lose their crispness, you can briefly toast them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 2-3 minutes.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Benne wafers contains approximately 100 calories, making them a relatively light treat when enjoyed in moderation.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Benne wafers contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates. The primary source of these carbohydrates is the brown sugar and all-purpose flour used in the recipe.

Fats

The fats in Benne wafers come mainly from the butter, contributing to the cookies' rich flavor and tender texture. Each serving contains about 7 grams of fat.

Proteins

Benne wafers are not a significant source of protein, with each serving containing approximately 2 grams. The protein present comes from the egg and sesame seeds.

Vitamins and minerals

Sesame seeds, a key ingredient in Benne wafers, are a good source of minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and iron. However, the amounts present in each serving of the wafers are minimal.

Alergens

The main allergens in this recipe are sesame seeds, eggs, and gluten (from all-purpose flour). Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should avoid Benne wafers or seek suitable substitutions.

Summary

Benne wafers are a delicious treat with a rich cultural history. While they are not particularly high in vitamins or protein, they offer a delightful taste experience and a touch of good luck, according to tradition. Enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Benne wafers are more than just a cookie; they are a piece of culinary history that celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the African diaspora in the Southern United States. This recipe offers a simple way to enjoy these traditional treats at home, whether you're looking to honor their origins or simply enjoy a delicious, crispy snack.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by its flavors. It was a warm summer day and I was visiting a friend who had recently returned from a trip to Africa. She had brought back with her a collection of recipes she had learned during her travels, and as she shared them with me, one in particular stood out - African Benne Wafers.

The recipe was unlike anything I had ever seen before. Made with sesame seeds, sugar, and butter, these delicate wafers were both sweet and savory, with a hint of nuttiness that was simply irresistible. My friend told me that they were a popular treat in many African countries, often served at weddings and other special occasions.

I was determined to learn how to make them myself, so I asked my friend to teach me the recipe. She gladly obliged, guiding me through the steps and explaining the importance of each ingredient. As we mixed and measured, she shared stories of her time in Africa, painting a vivid picture of the sights, sounds, and smells of the bustling markets where she had first tasted these delicious wafers.

After several hours of baking and waiting for the wafers to cool, we finally sat down to taste the fruits of our labor. The wafers were everything I had hoped for and more - crisp and golden brown, with a rich, toasty flavor that lingered on the palate. I knew then that this recipe would become a favorite in my own kitchen, a reminder of the wonderful day I had spent learning to make it.

Over the years, I have made African Benne Wafers many times, each batch better than the last. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition of making these special treats to the next generation. And as I bake, I can't help but think of my friend and the magical afternoon we spent together, discovering the flavors of a far-off land.

As I write this, I am reminded of the power of food to bring people together, to bridge the gap between cultures and create lasting memories. The recipe for African Benne Wafers may have come from a distant land, but it has found a home in my heart and my kitchen, where it will always be cherished and shared with those I love.

I am grateful for the opportunity to learn this recipe and for the friend who shared it with me. The flavors of Africa have enriched my life in more ways than I can count, and I look forward to many more years of baking and enjoying these delicious wafers. Let this recipe be a reminder that no matter where we come from, food has the power to connect us and bring us closer together.