Sim-Sim Cookies

Sim-Sim Cookies Recipe from Uganda | Sesame Seed & Sugar Cookies

Region / culture: Uganda | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Sim-Sim cookies are a popular treat in many African countries, known for their crunchy texture and nutty flavor. These cookies are simple to make and require only a few basic ingredients.

History

The origins of Sim-Sim cookies can be traced back to East Africa, where sesame seeds are a common ingredient in many dishes. These cookies have been enjoyed for generations as a sweet snack or dessert.

Ingredients

Use equal parts of
sesame seeds (clean and dry)
sugar

How to prepare

Heat the mixture over low heat until the sugar liquefies. Be careful not to overcook, as it will make the cookies too brittle.
Pour the hot mixture onto a flat, greased surface and allow it to cool.
Let it cool until warm to the touch, but not hot. Slice into squares and transfer the cookies to another surface to continue cooling.

Variations

Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor.
Mix in chopped nuts or dried fruit for added texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to stir the mixture constantly while heating to prevent burning.

- Use a greased surface to prevent the cookies from sticking.

- Allow the cookies to cool completely before serving to ensure they are crunchy.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy Sim-Sim cookies with a cup of tea or coffee for a delicious snack.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to constantly stir the mixture while heating to prevent burning.

- Allow the cookies to cool completely before slicing to ensure they hold their shape.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use honey or maple syrup as a sweetener instead of sugar.

- Try using different types of seeds, such as chia or flax seeds, for a unique twist.

Make Ahead Tips

Sim-Sim cookies can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to a week.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the cookies on a decorative plate or platter for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Sim-Sim cookies with a glass of milk or a scoop of ice cream for a delicious dessert.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store Sim-Sim cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They can be reheated in the oven for a few minutes to restore their crunchiness.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Sim-Sim cookies contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Sim-Sim cookies are a source of carbohydrates, providing energy for the body.

Fats

Sesame seeds are high in healthy fats, which can help support heart health and provide essential nutrients for the body.

Proteins

Sesame seeds are also a good source of protein, which is important for muscle growth and repair.

Vitamins and minerals

Sesame seeds are rich in vitamins and minerals, including calcium, iron, and magnesium.

Alergens

Sesame seeds are a common allergen, so be cautious if you have a sesame allergy.

Summary

Sim-Sim cookies are a nutritious snack that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Sim-Sim cookies are a delicious and nutritious treat that is easy to make at home. With their crunchy texture and nutty flavor, these cookies are sure to be a hit with family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be cherished in my heart. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Sarah in her cozy little farmhouse. As soon as I stepped inside, the sweet aroma of freshly baked cookies filled the air, making my mouth water.

I followed the scent to the kitchen, where Sarah was busy mixing ingredients in a large bowl. When she saw me, her face lit up with excitement. "I'm making Sim-Sim cookies," she exclaimed. "They're a family recipe passed down through generations. Would you like to help me?"

I eagerly agreed, eager to learn the secrets of this delicious treat. Sarah handed me a wooden spoon and began to explain the recipe to me. She told me that Sim-Sim cookies were a traditional snack in her family, originating from their homeland in East Africa.

The main ingredient in Sim-Sim cookies is sesame seeds, or "sim-sim" as they are called in Swahili. Sarah explained that sesame seeds are not only tasty but also packed with nutrients, making these cookies a wholesome and healthy snack.

As we worked together, mixing the dough and shaping the cookies, Sarah shared stories of her childhood and the memories associated with this recipe. She told me how her grandmother used to make Sim-Sim cookies for special occasions, and how they were always a hit with family and friends.

After baking the cookies to a perfect golden brown, we sat down to enjoy them with a cup of tea. The taste was divine – crunchy on the outside, chewy on the inside, with a hint of sweetness from the honey and richness from the sesame seeds. I was hooked.

From that day on, I made it my mission to master the art of making Sim-Sim cookies. I practiced diligently, experimenting with different proportions of ingredients and techniques until I found the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Over the years, I have made these cookies countless times, perfecting the recipe and adding my own personal touch. I have shared them with friends and family, who always rave about how delicious they are.

One day, while visiting a local market, I stumbled upon a vendor selling sesame seeds. The seeds were of the highest quality, fresh and fragrant. I knew immediately that I had to buy them and use them in my Sim-Sim cookies.

As I paid for the sesame seeds, the vendor asked me if I was planning to make Sim-Sim cookies. I nodded, surprised that he knew about this traditional recipe. He smiled and told me that his own grandmother used to make the best Sim-Sim cookies in the village, and he had learned the recipe from her.

Intrigued, I asked him to share his grandmother's recipe with me. He hesitated for a moment, then nodded and began to recite the ingredients and instructions. I listened attentively, eager to learn a new version of this beloved recipe.

When I returned home, I wasted no time in trying out the new recipe. The cookies turned out even more delicious than before, with a richer flavor and a crunchier texture. I was delighted with the results and couldn't wait to share them with my loved ones.

As I sat down to enjoy a freshly baked Sim-Sim cookie, I marveled at how a simple recipe could bring so much joy and connection. Each bite was a reminder of the friendships and memories that had shaped my culinary journey, from Sarah's farmhouse to the local market vendor's stall.

In that moment, I realized that the true magic of cooking lies not just in the flavors and textures of the dish, but in the stories and traditions that accompany it. And so, I continue to make Sim-Sim cookies with love and passion, passing down this cherished recipe to future generations, just as it was passed down to me.