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"xerotigana" greek sweet fries

(1 rating)
WWCook1 avatar
Recipe by
Maria *
@WWCook1
Athens

"Xerotigana" are like "Diples" only they don't contain eggs. Crisp, fried pastries, in flower buds shapes. Xerotigana are a tradition on the island of Crete given to guests at weddings and other special celebrations. A couple of months ago I was at a traditional Cretan wedding where these "Xerotigana" were given to us the guests. This is how I thought of sharing this unusual, yes labor intensive recipe but with a very pretty result. Hope you give it a try and enjoy this traditional sweet.

(1 rating)
yield serving(s)
method Deep Fry

Ingredients For "xerotigana" greek sweet fries

  • 2 lb
    all purpose flour
  • 2 Tbsp
    raki, tsipouro, ouzo or grappa
  • 1 Tbsp
    olive oil
  • 1 tsp
    salt
  • 2-3 c
    water
  • 3-4 c
    sunflower or corn oil
  • FOR THE SYRUP
  • 2 lb
    sugar
  • 1 c
    honey
  • 2 c
    water
  • 1 stick
    cinnamon
  • 1 c
    walnuts, finely ground
  • 1 Tbsp
    sesame seeds

How To Make "xerotigana" greek sweet fries

  • 1
    Measure flour into a large mixing bowl. Make a slight well in the centre. Pour in the raki or (other alchohol you choose), olive oil, salt and water. Knead on medium speed for about 10 minutes or until smooth,slightly hard dough forms. Cover and let rest for about 10 minutes.
  • 2
    Divide dough into two pieces as large as a peach each. With a rolling pin roll out each piece about 1 inch thick. To give these sweets their pretty design, with a serated knife cut into strips 2-3cms wide & 15 cms long. Roll up each strip into the shape of a large rosebud. By using a fork it might be easier.
  • 3
    Fry each rosebud in hot oil for 3-4 minutes or until lightly golden brown. Drain on kitchen paper lined plate.
  • 4
    Prepare syrup by boiling sugar, honey, water & cinnamon together for 10-12 minutes. Quickly dip each rosebud in the hot syrup. Arrange on a serving platter & sprinkle with ground walnuts & sesame seeds.
  • 5
    Tip: If you don't like sweets to be very syrupy like I do don't dip them in the syrup but instead drizzle the syrup on the "Xerotigana" ENJOY!!!
  • Last Step: Don't forget to share! Make all your friends drool by posting a picture of your finished recipe on your favorite social network. And don't forget to tag Just A Pinch and include #justapinchrecipes so we can see it too!
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