Catalonia Panellets are a cherished Catalan sweet treat typically enjoyed during the All Saints' Day festival, known locally as La Castanyada, on November 1st. These delightful almond-based cookies are made from a simple blend of ground almonds, sugar, and egg, offering a rich, nutty flavor with a slightly chewy texture. Traditionally decorated with pine nuts, cocoa powder, or coconut flakes, Catalonia Panellets are a festive favorite that combines tradition with deliciousness.
Panellets have been a part of Catalan tradition for centuries. La Castanyada, the festival during which they are enjoyed, is a time for families to gather and honor deceased loved ones. During this celebration, it is customary to serve traditional foods, including Panellets. The recipe is straightforward, reflecting the humble origins of the dish and its focus on using readily available ingredients to create something truly special.
Ingredients:
- 250g ground almonds
- 250g sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 egg yolk
- Pine nuts, cocoa powder, or coconut flakes for decoration
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground almonds and sugar.
3. Add the eggs and egg yolk, mixing until a dough forms.
4. Shape the dough into small balls, roughly the size of a walnut.
5. Arrange the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. For decoration, dip each ball in water, then roll in your choice of pine nuts, cocoa powder, or coconut flakes.
7. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until the panellets are golden brown.
8. Allow the panellets to cool on a wire rack before serving.
Tips:
- If the dough feels too dry, add a splash of milk to achieve the right consistency.
- Use ground almonds rather than almond flour to get the desired texture for your Panellets.
Nutrition Value:
1. 250g Ground Almonds
- Calories: Approximately 1,450 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Protein: 50g
- Fat: 125g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Vitamins: Rich in vitamin E, contains small amounts of B vitamins
- Minerals: High in magnesium, calcium, and potassium
Nutritional Benefits: Ground almonds are a great source of healthy fats, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals. They support heart health, provide energy, and can help regulate blood sugar levels.
2. 250g Sugar
- Calories: Approximately 1,000 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 250g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Vitamins: Minimal
- Minerals: Minimal
Nutritional Benefits: Sugar provides quick energy but lacks vitamins and minerals. It’s important to consume it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
3. 2 Eggs
- Calories: Approximately 140 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 10g
- Sodium: 140mg
- Cholesterol: 370mg
- Vitamins: High in vitamins A, D, E, and B12
- Minerals: Contains iron, phosphorus, and selenium
Nutritional Benefits: Eggs are a high-quality protein source, providing essential amino acids. They are also rich in vitamins and minerals important for overall health and metabolism.
4. 1 Egg Yolk
- Calories: Approximately 55 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 0.6g
- Protein: 2.7g
- Fat: 4.5g
- Sodium: 8mg
- Cholesterol: 184mg
- Vitamins: High in vitamins A, D, and B12
- Minerals: Contains calcium, iron, and phosphorus
Nutritional Benefits: The egg yolk provides essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals that support brain function and maintain healthy skin and eyes.
5. Pine Nuts, Cocoa Powder, or Coconut Flakes for Decoration
Pine Nuts:
- Calories: Approximately 673 kcal per 100g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Protein: 14g
- Fat: 68g
- Sodium: 2mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Vitamins: Rich in vitamin K and B vitamins
- Minerals: High in magnesium, zinc, and iron
Nutritional Benefits: Pine nuts provide healthy fats, protein, and essential minerals that support heart health and overall wellness.
Cocoa Powder:
- Calories: Approximately 228 kcal per 100g
- Carbohydrates: 57g
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 14g
- Sodium: 21mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Vitamins: Contains small amounts of vitamins A, B, and E
- Minerals: High in iron, magnesium, and potassium
Nutritional Benefits: Cocoa powder is rich in antioxidants and can help improve heart health and cognitive function.
Coconut Flakes:
- Calories: Approximately 354 kcal per 100g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 33g
- Sodium: 7mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Vitamins: Contains small amounts of vitamin C and B vitamins
- Minerals: High in manganese, copper, and iron
Nutritional Benefits: Coconut flakes offer healthy fats and fiber that support digestive health and provide energy.
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