Ma9roudet Louz
Ma9roudet Louz, meaning 'almond makroud', is a delightful Algerian pastry from the region of Constantine. Unlike the semolina-based makroud, this version features a rich almond filling encased in a delicate, flaky dough, often flavored with orange blossom water and honey.
🧂 Ingredients
- 300 g All-purpose flour
- 250 g Almonds(blanched, ground finely)
- 100 g Powdered sugar(for the dough)
- 125 g Butter(softened)
- 2 large Egg yolks
- 1 tbsp Orange blossom water
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
- 1 pinch Salt
- For the filling:
- 200 g Ground almonds
- 100 g Powdered sugar
- 2 large Egg whites(lightly beaten)
- 1 tsp Orange blossom water
- For the syrup:
- 200 g Honey
- 100 ml Water
- 1 tsp Orange blossom water
- Optional garnish:
- for sprinkling Chopped pistachios
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg yolks, orange blossom water, vanilla extract, and salt. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- 2
Prepare the filling: In a separate bowl, combine the ground almonds and powdered sugar. Gradually add the lightly beaten egg whites and 1 tsp orange blossom water, mixing until a paste forms. It should be firm enough to shape.
- 3
Assemble the pastries: Roll out the dough thinly on a lightly floured surface. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., diamonds or squares). Place a small amount of almond filling in the center of each dough piece. Fold the dough over the filling and seal the edges, pressing firmly. You can use a fork to create decorative edges.
- 4
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the assembled pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- 5
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastries are lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake.
- 6
Prepare the syrup: While the pastries are baking, combine honey and water in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in 1 tsp orange blossom water. Let it cool slightly.
- 7
Dip the warm pastries into the slightly cooled syrup, ensuring they are well coated. Let them drain on a wire rack.
- 8
Garnish with chopped pistachios, if desired. Allow to cool completely before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the almonds for the filling are ground very finely to achieve a smooth texture.
- ✓Do not overwork the dough, as this can make the pastries tough.
- ✓The syrup should not be too hot when dipping the pastries, or they will become soggy.
🔄 Variations
- Add a pinch of ground cinnamon to the almond filling.
- For a richer dough, you can add a tablespoon of milk or yogurt.
- Experiment with different shapes and decorative patterns.