Kolompeh | The Persian Date Pastry

Kolompeh is a traditional Persian pastry, particularly famous in the Kerman region of Iran. This recipe produces a delightful cookie-like treat made from dates and aromatic spices, traditionally enjoyed during Nowruz celebrations. Although it is easier to buy from pastry shops, the homemade version offers a unique and memorable taste.

Recipe Overview

Cook Time

• 20 minutes

Course

• Sweet

Cuisine

• Persian

Servings

• 10 people

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 250 grams Pastry flour
• 125 grams Solid oil (oil that contains saturated fatty acids) or pastry oil
• 100 grams Yogurt
• 1 egg
• ½ tablespoon Baking powder
• Brewed saffron (as much as required)

For the Stuffing

• 200 grams Dates
• ¼ cup Powdered walnuts
• 1 teaspoon A mixture of cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg powder

Instructions

Preparing the Dough

1. Activate the Baking Powder: Add the baking powder to the yogurt and stir. Let it sit for a few minutes until it starts to react.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: Add brewed saffron and egg yolk to the yogurt mixture. Stir well.
3. Prepare Flour: Sift the pastry flour three times to ensure it is smooth and soft. Mix it with the oil until it resembles breadcrumbs.
4. Combine Ingredients: Add the yogurt mixture to the flour mixture. Make a well in the center and beat with a whisk until smooth.
5. Rest the Dough: Place the dough in a freezer bag or wrap it securely. Refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours.

Preparing the Stuffing

1. Prepare Dates: Peel the dates and remove the pits. Place the date flesh in a bowl.
2. Add Spices: Add the mixed spices (cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg) to the dates. Crush and mix with the back of a spoon until smooth.

Assembling Kolompeh

With a Frame

1. Form Balls: Take some dough and spread it on a surface. Place some filling inside and wrap it up with the dough to form a ball.
2. Press with Frame: Press the ball with a special kolompeh frame.

Without a Frame

1. Roll Dough: Roll the dough out on a floured surface to a medium thickness.
2. Cut Circles: Use a round cutter to stamp out as many circles as possible.
3. Fill and Seal: Place some filling on one circle and cover with another circle. Press the edges to seal. Impress a pattern on the cookie if desired.

Baking

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F) for about 2 minutes.
2. Prepare Baking Tray: Line the oven tray with parchment paper. Place the kolompeh cookies on the tray, ensuring proper spacing.
3. Bake: Bake in the oven for 15–20 minutes.
4. Garnish: Sprinkle with sesame and pistachio powder as a garnish.

Allergy Information and Substitutions

Allergies

• Nuts: Contains walnuts. Substitute with sunflower seeds or omit if allergic.
• Dairy: Contains yogurt. Use a dairy-free yogurt alternative if necessary.
• Egg: Contains egg. Replace with a flaxseed or chia seed mixture (1 tablespoon ground seeds + 3 tablespoons water) for an egg-free version.

Health Rating: B

This pastry is relatively healthy due to its use of dates, spices, and nuts, which provide essential nutrients and antioxidants. However, the presence of solid oil and sugar content suggests moderate consumption.

Ingredient Information

Pastry Flour

• Purpose: Provides structure to the dough.
• Nutrition: Source of carbohydrates and protein.

Solid Oil (Pastry Oil)

• Purpose: Adds richness and helps create a flaky texture.
• Nutrition: High in saturated fats.

Yogurt

• Purpose: Adds moisture and a slight tanginess.
• Nutrition: Provides protein and probiotics.

Egg

• Purpose: Binds the dough and adds richness.
• Nutrition: High in protein and vitamins.

Baking Powder

• Purpose: Leavening agent to help the dough rise.
• Nutrition: Minimal nutritional impact.

Brewed Saffron

• Purpose: Adds flavor and color.
• Nutrition: Contains antioxidants.

Dates

• Purpose: Sweetener and primary filling ingredient.
• Nutrition: High in fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

Powdered Walnuts

• Purpose: Adds texture and flavor to the filling.
• Nutrition: Rich in healthy fats, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids.

Spices (Cardamom, Cinnamon, Ginger, Nutmeg)

• Purpose: Enhance flavor and aroma.
• Nutrition: Contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.

Enjoy making and sharing this delightful Persian treat!