Asabia el Aroos

Asabia el Aroos Recipe from Afghanistan | Ingredients: filo dough, unsalted butter, sugar, water, lemon juice, almonds, egg

Region / culture: Afghanistan | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Asabia el Aroos, often referred to as the Bride's Fingers, is a delightful Middle Eastern pastry that combines the crispiness of filo dough with the rich sweetness of sugar syrup and the nutty flavor of pistachios. This dessert is not only a feast for the palate but also a treat for the eyes, making it a perfect addition to any celebration or gathering. The recipe provided here offers a step-by-step guide to creating these delicious pastries at home, ensuring that even novice bakers can achieve excellent results.

History

The origins of Asabia el Aroos can be traced back to the Middle East, where it has been a traditional dessert for centuries. The name itself, which translates to "Bride's Fingers," reflects the pastry's association with weddings and celebrations. Over time, the recipe has traveled across borders and has been embraced by various cultures, each adding its unique twist to the classic dish. Despite these variations, the core elements of filo dough, nuts, and sweet syrup remain constant, symbolizing the enduring appeal of this beloved dessert.

Ingredients

0.5 package (16 oz (454 g)) of completely defrosted frozen filo dough
0.25 cup of melted unsalted butter (optional)

Sweet syrup

2 cups of granulated sugar
2 cups of water
2 tsp of lemon juice

Filling

0.5 cup of almonds or pistachios, pulverized in a food processor with
0.33 cup of sugar

Glaze

1 beaten egg
sugar

How to prepare

Prepare the syrup in advance and chill it in the refrigerator.
Combine the filling ingredients.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C) and grease 1 or 2 baking sheets.
Cut the filo pastry in half crosswise and then again in half. Stack the pieces with a slightly dampened towel to prevent drying. Lay 2 rectangles on your work surface with the shorter sides facing you, and lightly brush them with melted butter.
Place a rounded tablespoon of the filling in a line across the shorter side of the filo pastry that faces you. Fold the longer edges of the pastry inward to seal in the sides of the filling, and roll the pastry up from the short side, forming a fat cigar shape. Place the rolled pastry on the baking sheet with the cut edge down. Repeat this step with the remaining dough.
Lightly brush the tops of the pastries with beaten egg and sprinkle them with sugar.
Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Dip the warm pastries into cool sweet syrup and arrange them on a serving tray. Serve at room temperature.

Variations

While pistachios are traditionally used, almonds or walnuts can also be used as a filling. For a different flavor profile, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom to the sugar syrup.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best results when making Asabia el Aroos, consider the following tips:

- Work quickly with filo dough to prevent it from drying out. Keep it covered with a damp cloth when not in use.

- Use a food processor to achieve finely ground pistachios for a smooth filling.

- Make the syrup in advance and chill it, as dipping warm pastries in cool syrup helps them absorb the sweetness without becoming soggy.

- Brushing the pastries with beaten egg before baking gives them a beautiful golden color and helps the sugar topping adhere.

Serving Suggestions

Asabia el Aroos is best served at room temperature, making it an ideal dessert for gatherings and celebrations. It pairs beautifully with a cup of strong coffee or tea, which helps balance the sweetness of the pastries.

Cooking Techniques

Achieving the perfect Asabia el Aroos involves mastering the technique of working with filo dough. Keeping the dough moist and rolling it tightly around the filling are key steps in creating these delicate pastries.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a lighter version, the melted butter can be omitted or replaced with a light brushing of oil. Similarly, the sugar in the syrup can be partially substituted with honey for a different flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

The syrup can be made several days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The filled and rolled pastries can also be prepared ahead of time and frozen. Simply thaw and bake when ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the pastries on a decorative platter and garnish with additional ground pistachios or rose petals for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Asabia el Aroos pairs wonderfully with mint tea or Arabic coffee, offering a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the dessert.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Asabia el Aroos can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze. To reheat, place in a warm oven for a few minutes until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Asabia el Aroos contains approximately 300 calories. The majority of these calories come from the carbohydrates and fats present in the ingredients.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Asabia el Aroos contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. The majority of these carbs come from the sugar used in the syrup and filling, as well as the filo dough.

Fats

The fat content in Asabia el Aroos primarily comes from the pistachios and the optional melted butter used in the recipe. Each serving contains about 10 grams of fat, with a mix of saturated and unsaturated fats.

Proteins

Asabia el Aroos provides a modest amount of protein, with each serving containing approximately 4 grams. This protein comes mainly from the pistachios and the egg used in the glaze.

Vitamins and minerals

Pistachios, a key ingredient in Asabia el Aroos, are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B6, thiamine, phosphorus, and magnesium. These nutrients contribute to the overall nutritional profile of the dessert.

Alergens

Common allergens in Asabia el Aroos include nuts (pistachios) and gluten (from the filo dough). Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should exercise caution.

Summary

Asabia el Aroos is a rich, sweet dessert that offers a balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals from the pistachios. While it is a delightful treat, it should be enjoyed in moderation due to its sugar and calorie content.

Summary

Asabia el Aroos is a traditional Middle Eastern pastry that offers a delightful combination of crispy filo dough, sweet syrup, and nutty filling. With its rich history and cultural significance, this dessert is a wonderful way to explore the flavors of the Middle East. By following the tips and variations provided, you can customize the recipe to suit your taste and create a memorable treat for any occasion.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Fatima's house. As soon as I walked in, the delicious aroma of spices greeted me and made my mouth water.

I asked Fatima what she was cooking, and she replied with a smile, "Asabia el Aroos, a traditional Middle Eastern dessert that is perfect for special occasions."

I watched intently as Fatima gathered the ingredients and began to explain the process of making this delectable treat. She told me that the recipe had been passed down through her family for generations, and she was honored to share it with me.

As I helped Fatima mix the dough and shape the Asabia el Aroos, I listened to her stories about her grandmother, who was a renowned cook in their village. She told me how her grandmother would spend hours in the kitchen, perfecting each recipe and ensuring that every dish was made with love and care.

By the time the Asabia el Aroos was ready to be served, I knew that I had to learn how to make it myself. I asked Fatima for the recipe, and she graciously wrote it down for me, along with detailed instructions on how to prepare it.

When I returned home that evening, I immediately set to work in my own kitchen, following Fatima's recipe to the letter. The familiar scents of cinnamon, cardamom, and rose water filled the air, transporting me back to Fatima's kitchen and the memories we had shared that day.

As I took the first bite of the freshly baked Asabia el Aroos, I knew that I had found a new favorite recipe. The combination of the sweet, sticky dough and the crunchy nuts was simply divine, and I couldn't wait to share this delicious dessert with my family and friends.

Over the years, I have made Asabia el Aroos for countless gatherings and celebrations. Each time I prepare it, I think of Fatima and her grandmother, and the bond that we forged over our shared love of cooking and traditional recipes.

I have since added my own twist to the recipe, incorporating a hint of orange zest and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra flavor. My children and grandchildren have grown to love Asabia el Aroos just as much as I do, and I am proud to pass on this treasured recipe to future generations.

As I sit here, reflecting on the journey that led me to discover this delicious dessert, I am filled with gratitude for the friendships and memories that have enriched my life. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and I am grateful for the opportunity to learn new recipes and techniques from the people I meet along the way.

I may have learned how to make Asabia el Aroos from Fatima, but the true magic of this recipe lies in the shared experiences and stories that come with it. I will always cherish the memories of that summer day when I first tasted this delightful dessert, and I look forward to creating many more delicious dishes in the years to come.