Kleicha Recipe

Kleicha (Iraqi Date Cookies) Recipe

Kleicha are traditional Iraqi cookies filled with sweet date paste and often enjoyed during holidays or special occasions.

Chef rawand شێف ڕەوەند

بو داوا كردني خواردن شيريني و كوليچه و برمه پەیوەندیمان پێوەبکەن.

Introducing Chef Rawand, a culinary maestro from Erbil, Iraq. Fusing traditional Iraqi flavors with contemporary flair, Chef Rawand's innovative approach to cooking promises a delightful journey through the rich tapestry of Iraqi cuisine.

With each dish, Chef Rawand invites you to savor the essence of Iraq's culinary heritage in a captivating and unforgettable culinary experience.

● Serving Suggestions
● Storage and Reheating

● Introduction
● Ingredients
● Preparation Steps

Table of Content

Introduction
Kleicha are a delightful treat from Iraqi cuisine, known for their delicate pastry and sweet, spiced date filling. This recipe combines simple ingredients with traditional techniques to create these delicious cookies.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

● 3 cups all-purpose flour
● 1/2 cup unsalted butter
● 1/2 cup vegetable oil
● 1/4 cup granulated sugar
● 1/2 teaspoon salt
● 1/2 cup lukewarm water
● 1 teaspoon active dry yeast

For the Date Filling:

● 2 cups pitted dates
● 1/4 cup water
● 1/2 teaspoon cardamom
● 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
● 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Preparations Steps

1. Prepare the Dough:

In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in lukewarm water and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, softened butter, vegetable oil, sugar, and salt.
Add the yeast mixture to the flour mixture and knead until a smooth dough forms. Cover the dough and let it rest for 30 minutes.

2. Make the Date Filling:

In a saucepan, combine the chopped dates, water, ground cardamom, and ground cinnamon.
Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the dates soften and the mixture thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
Remove from heat, stir in the vegetable oil, and let the filling cool completely.

3. Assemble the Kleicha

Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a walnut.
Flatten each dough ball into a circle using your fingers or a rolling pin, about 1/8 inch thick.
Place a small amount of the date filling (about 1 teaspoon) in the center of each dough circle.
Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape, then seal the edges by crimping with a fork or pinching with your fingers.
Place the filled cookies on the prepared baking sheet.

4. Bake the Kleicha:

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown.

Serving Suggestions

Kleicha are best served warm or at room temperature.
They pair well with a cup of tea or coffee.

Storage and Reheating

Allow the Kleicha to cool completely before storing in an airtight container at room temperature. They can be stored for up to a week. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes before serving.