Fennel Seed Cookies

Fennel Seed Cookies 

I live in the Netherlands, and my husband I always drink coffee after our meal as do many other Dutch people. I was wondering where that habit came from so I did some research. It was actually the Dutch East India Company who were the first to import coffee on a large scale to Europe in the 17th century.The Dutch later grew the crop in Java and Ceylon. The first exports of Indonesian coffee from Java to the Netherlands occurred in 1711. By the late 17th century, tea and coffee consumption were increasing and becoming part of everyday life. Tea was served with sweets, candy or marzipan and cookies. 

Generally the Dutch invite friends over for koffietijd (coffee time), which consists of coffee and cake or a biscuit, served between 10:00 and 11:00 am (before lunch), 4:00 pm (between lunch and dinner) or between 7:00 pm and 8:00 pm (after dinner).  Dutch thrift led to the famous standard rule of only one cookie with each cup of coffee. 😆

It has been suggested that the reasons for this can be found in the Protestant mentality and upbringing in the northern Netherlands. The traditionally Roman Catholic south does not share this tradition as for instance in Limburg (amazingly beautiful city), where serving a large vlaai (sweet pie or pastry with filling), cut into eight pieces, is tradition when visitors are expected.

Whatever the reasoning, I love the "something sweet" after dinner, and I know Pia feels the same even though she lives in Japan! 🎎 Helena also loves her sweet treats, and we have tried cookies all over the world together. 

A few years ago I was visiting the beautiful city of Haarlem and having lunch with my friend at his wife's restaurant. Unfortunately the restaurant is not open anymore but these cookies were served with the coffee and I loved them. The owner mentioned that they were not difficult to make and gave me the recipe which I will now share with you! Enjoy, but be warned.... this plate usually lasts about 5 minutes! 🙋 


Ingredients

150 grams of flour

100 grams Sugar

100 Ml cold water

pinch of salt

3 teaspoons Fennel seeds

Roast the fennel seeds in a pan for a few minutes then use the mortar and pestle to crush the seeds a little. Mix all the ingredients and make a roll, then slice and make small balls, and flatten a little (see pic). I made about 16 cookies. Leave in the oven for about 10-15 minutes 175 degrees. 

Enjoy! love, Caroline

ps. If you make these cookies, be sure to tag us on Instagram so we can share! 







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