Semsemia(Sesame Cookies)
Semsemia are sweet sesame cookies with rich flavors of honey, walnuts, and aromatic spices, perfect for sharing with friends and family during special occasions or tea time.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown sesame seeds slightly in the oven or on the stovetop. Set aside.
- Mix honey, peanut butter, sugar, rose water, and cardamom in a saucepan.
- Cook on low heat until it bubbles.
- Stir in the sesame seeds and chopped walnuts.
- Spread the mixture in a greased 9 x 14-inch (or similar size) pan to cool.
- Once cooled, cut into diamond shapes and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, toast the sesame seeds until golden brown but be careful not to burn them. If you want a nut-free version, substitute chopped walnuts with sunflower seeds. Adjust the sweetness by reducing the sugar if desired, or replace it with maple syrup for a different twist. The consistency of the mixture can be adjusted by adding more peanut butter or honey if it's too dry.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Semsemia as a delightful snack or dessert. They pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a unique twist, try serving alongside Pineapple And Cream Cheese Salad for a refreshing contrast. You can also enjoy them with a dollop of yogurt or as part of a dessert platter with other sweet treats.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Semsemia in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To maintain freshness, avoid exposing them to direct sunlight or moisture. Reheat in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes if you prefer them warm, ensuring they don't become too hard.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Semsemia(Sesame Cookies) contains roughly 272 calories, with 6g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different nuts instead of walnuts?
Absolutely! You can substitute walnuts with any nuts you prefer, such as almonds or pecans, for a different texture and flavor. Just ensure that they are chopped to a similar size as the walnuts to maintain the consistency of the cookie mixture.
What can I use instead of rose water?
If you don't have rose water on hand, you can substitute it with orange blossom water or simply omit it altogether. Alternatively, a splash of vanilla extract can add a pleasant aroma, although it will change the flavor profile slightly.
How do I know when the sesame seeds are toasted enough?
Toast the sesame seeds until they are light golden brown and fragrant, which usually takes about 5-10 minutes. Stir them frequently to ensure even toasting and prevent burning. Once they start to brown, remove them from heat immediately to preserve their flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).