… where the Gods of fertility and creation …
… the name of the village derives from the names of two gods, Aon,the God of Fertility and Abel, the God of Creation, thus Aon-Abel, which by the passing of centuries and the change of languages that the region experienced was corrupted into Ain-Ebel.
…. others believe that the name of Ain-Ebel derives from two words, “Ain” and “Ibl”. The first means spring as many places in Lebanon are named, and the second word means irrigation. Combined in one (Ain-Ebel) the two words mean the spring of irrigation.
What we do know is, that these cookies come from Ain Ebel. These are “Kaak bi Tamr” from Ain Ebel, or “Cookies with Dates” from Ain Ebel. Simmilar to Ma’amoul. Usually prepared right around the Easter holidays.
Ma’amoul are small shortbread pastries filled with dates, pistachios or walnuts. They are popular in Levantine cuisine and in the Gulf countries. They may be in the shape of balls or of domed or flattened cookies. They can either be decorated by hand or be made in special wooden moulds. (My post “delicious opulence and comfortable luxury“)
This box of “Kaak bi Tamr” was an Easter offering from my brother in law’s mother in law. Easter, like every easter this box comes into our home. Yes, mother in law is from Ain Ebel … Thank You Cleo …
Arousset el Jnoub, Ain-Ebel, is known for its beautiful scenery, amiable people, and jovial atmosphere. Situated in the heart of the South of Lebanon, Ain-Ebel occupies several hills with elevations ranging from 750 to 850 meters above sea level.
Round biscuit like cookies filled with a filling of dates. Crisp on the outside, and chewy on the inside …. not to sweet, …. a peppery taste to it, …. the perfect companion to a morning-cup of jawa on the terrace.
First I was playing with them, got out my camera and took a couple of shots. Playing with food in one of my things …. taking pictures …. and playing some more …
Research did not reveal any recipes or instructions …. not even a faint hint of an idea. I will try to get behind it …. for another blog …