Hamantaschen cookies, also known as "Haman's hats," are a traditional sweet prepared especially during the Jewish holiday of Purim. This celebration commemorates the salvation of the Jewish people in Persia, as narrated in the Book of Esther. Hamantaschen have a characteristic triangular shape that symbolizes the hat of the villain Haman, the antagonist of the story. In different Latin American countries, these cookies may be called the same or simply "Purim cookies." Their popularity extends to Jewish communities around the world, and although the most traditional filling is poppy seeds, there are also versions with jams, chocolates, or dried fruits.
In addition to their historical and religious significance, hamantaschen represent the unity and joy that this holiday brings, a time when food is shared, songs are sung, and acts of charity are performed. Preparing them as a family is a tradition passed down from generation to generation, keeping Jewish culture and customs alive.
How to Make Hamantaschen Cookies (Haman's Hats)
Hamantaschen are the traditional cookies for Purim, a festive celebration in the Jewish calendar.
Grease the cookie sheets.
In a large bowl, lightly beat the eggs.
Add sugar, orange zest, and margarine.
Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Spoon the flour lightly into the measuring cup.
Level it off.
Add the flour.
Mix well.
Cover with plastic wrap.
Refrigerate for 1 and a half hours to make it easier to handle.
Preheat the oven to 350°F.
On a lightly floured surface, roll out 1/4 of the dough at a time to a 1/4-inch thickness.
Keep the rest of the dough refrigerated.
Cut with a floured 3-inch round cookie cutter.
Place 1 inch apart on the greased sheets.
Place a heaping teaspoon of poppy seed filling in the center of each circle.
Moisten the edges of the dough circles with water.
Form triangles as shown in the diagram by folding the 3 sides without completely covering the filling.
Press the corners to seal.
Bake at 350°F for 8-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
Cool for 1 minute.
Remove from the cookie sheets.
Ingredients: Eggs, Sugar, Orange zest, Margarine, All-purpose flour, Poppy seed filling.
