During the festive holiday season, the scent of warm spices and sweet treats fills the air, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for indulging in homemade delicacies. Greek Christmas baking is famous for its rich flavors and traditional recipes that have been passed down through generations. One such delightful treat is Glyko Amygdalo Me Portokali, also known as Almond and Orange Sweets. These bite-sized morsels are a combination of nutty almonds and zesty oranges, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that will please your taste buds. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or looking for a special homemade gift, these sweet treats are sure to impress your family and friends.
**Title: Glyko Amygdalo Me Portokali Almond and Orange Sweets**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups blanched almonds
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– Zest of 1 orange
– Juice of 1/2 orange
– Powdered sugar for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. Start by blanching the almonds. Bring a pot of water to a boil and add the almonds. Let them boil for about 1-2 minutes, then drain and rinse them with cold water. Gently squeeze the almonds to remove the skins. Once blanched, pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
2. In a food processor, pulse the blanched almonds until they are finely ground but not turned into nut butter. You want a coarse texture for added crunch in the sweets.
3. In a saucepan, combine the sugar and water over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely. Add the orange zest and juice to the sugar syrup. Let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes until it forms a slightly thick syrup.
4. Add the ground almonds to the syrup mixture. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring continuously, until it thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan. This should take about 10-15 minutes.
5. Remove the pan from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly. While it’s still warm, shape the almond and orange mixture into small balls or any desired shapes using your hands or a mold. Place them on a lined baking sheet to set and cool completely.
6. Once the sweets have cooled and hardened, dust them with powdered sugar for a beautiful snowy finish. You can also garnish them with additional orange zest for a pop of color and extra citrus aroma.
7. Serve these delightful Glyko Amygdalo Me Portokali Almond and Orange Sweets on a festive platter or package them in pretty boxes for gifts. They make a perfect addition to your holiday dessert spread or a lovely present for your loved ones.
Whether you enjoy them with a cup of hot tea by the fireplace or share them with guests at a holiday party, these Almond and Orange Sweets will be a hit. Embrace the spirit of Greek Christmas baking with this timeless recipe that celebrates the flavors of the season. Enjoy the warmth and joy that comes from sharing these homemade treats with those you hold dear.
