Broas Castelares are delicious Portuguese sweet potato cookies that spread joy during the holidays. Made from sweet potato, dried coconut, ginger, and orange zest, these treats have a unique flavor and soft texture. Have you ever tried baking with sweet potatoes? It's simple! Just mash the cooked sweet potatoes, mix in your ingredients, and shape them into ovals. Bake until golden brown for about 15-20 minutes. These cookies not only taste great but also connect you to Portuguese traditions. So, if you're curious about making them or want some tips, you're in the right place! ��✨

History

Broas Castelares cookies have a rich history that dates back to 1860 when the Castelar brothers began crafting them at Confeitaria Francesa in Lisbon.

The delightful process of making these cookies mirrors the careful attention to detail found in mastering other culinary arts, such as smoking meats with precision in a temperature control and cooking stability setup.

Ever wondered how a simple sweet potato could create such a delightful treat? These Portuguese cookies are more than just a snack; they reflect the festive spirit of Portugal, especially during Christmas.

The use of sweet potato gives Broas their unique flavor and texture, setting them apart from other cookies.

Over time, different regions in Portugal have put their spin on these cookies, creating variations while keeping the core ingredients the same.

Isn't it fascinating how food carries stories and traditions?

Enjoying Broas means tasting a piece of Portuguese history!

Recipe

Broas Castelares Cookies Recipe

Broas Castelares are a delightful Portuguese treat, perfect for celebrating the holiday season. These cookies aren't only rich in flavor but also carry a sense of tradition that makes them a cherished part of festive gatherings. The combination of sweet potatoes, dried coconut, ginger, and orange creates a unique taste that's both sweet and aromatic, making these cookies a standout addition to any dessert table.

For a truly eco-friendly baking experience, consider using compostable parchment paper to line your baking sheets, ensuring your culinary creations are both delicious and sustainable.

The preparation process is a labor of love, starting with the baking of sweet potatoes until they're soft and easily mashed. Once processed into a smooth puree, the sweet potatoes are combined with sugar, citrus zests, and spices, and allowed to rest overnight, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Shaping the cookies into ovals and baking them until golden results in an irresistible dessert that's sure to impress family and friends alike.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups sweet potato puree
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup dried coconut
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1 egg yolk (for brushing)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (optional, for texture)

Instructions:

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the sweet potatoes until they're tender, then allow them to cool before peeling and mashing them into a smooth puree.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sweet potato puree with sugar, dried coconut, ground ginger, and orange zest. If you prefer a slightly firmer texture, you can incorporate flour into the mixture.

Once well combined, refrigerate the dough overnight to enhance the flavors. The next day, shape the chilled dough into oval cookies, brush the tops with egg yolk, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown, then let them cool on a wire rack.

Extra Tips:

For the best results, choose sweet potatoes that are firm and sweet to enhance the flavor of your cookies.

When shaping the cookies, it can be helpful to wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking. Feel free to experiment with spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor, but keep in mind that the traditional recipe shines with its simplicity.

Final Thoughts

When you indulge in Broas Castelares cookies, you're not just enjoying a tasty treat; you're savoring a piece of Portuguese tradition.

These delightful cookies, made with sweet potatoes, bring warmth and joy to any occasion. The process of making these cookies can be similar to the benefits of composting, as both involve a connection to natural ingredients and sustainable practices.

Here's why you should love them:

1. Unique Flavor: The sweet potatoes give a rich taste that's hard to resist.
2. Cultural Connection: Enjoying them connects you to Portugal's rich culinary heritage.
3. Versatile Recipes: Different regions offer unique twists on this classic treat.
4. Perfect for Holidays: They're especially popular during Christmas, bringing families together.