Shirini Nargili Recipe

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons shredded coconut
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 3 egg whites
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Roughly chopped pistachios (for topping)

Directions

1. Process the shredded coconut and sugar in a food processor for about 10 seconds, until well-blended.
2. Add the egg whites and vegetable oil to the processor. Continue processing for another 10 seconds until fully combined.
3. Scrape down the sides of the processor bowl and blend for an additional 10 seconds to ensure the mixture is smooth and uniform.
4. Transfer the coconut mixture to a saucepan. Place the saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring constantly to avoid burning, and cook until the mixture thickens into a paste. This should take about 15 minutes. Be careful not to let the mixture boil or simmer.
5. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the lemon juice and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
6. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature, which will take about 1 hour. Note that the batter will thicken further as it cools.
7. Preheat your oven to 325F (165C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
8. Once the batter has cooled, transfer it to a pastry bag fitted with a small round tip.
9. Pipe the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, creating 1 1/2-inch circles spaced about 2 inches apart.
10. Lightly oil the tip of your index finger and gently smooth the tops of each cookie to form a rounded shape.
11. Sprinkle the chopped pistachios on top of each cookie for added texture and flavor.
12. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the bottoms and edges of the cookies turn golden brown.
13. Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight for storage.
14. These cookies can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition Facts

Per Serving (1 cookie):

Nutrient	Amount	% Daily Value
Calories	39	-
Total Fat	2g	2%
Saturated Fat	0g	0%
Cholesterol	0mg	0%
Sodium	7mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate	5g	2%
Dietary Fiber	0g	0%
Total Sugars	5g	-
Protein	0g	1%
Vitamin C	0mg	0%
Calcium	0mg	0%
Iron	0mg	0%
Potassium	7mg	0%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Origin and History

Shirini Nargili, also known as Persian coconut cookies, are a delightful and traditional sweet treat from Iran. The name "Shirini Nargili" translates to "coconut sweet," reflecting the primary ingredient used in their creation. These cookies are especially popular during Persian New Year (Nowruz), which marks the arrival of spring and a new beginning. The cookies' light and airy texture, along with their delicate sweetness, make them a perfect choice for festive occasions.

Regional Variations

Though Shirini Nargili is widely loved across Iran, its preparation can vary slightly depending on the region. In some areas, the cookies may include additional ingredients like cardamom or rosewater, infusing them with unique aromatic flavors. Additionally, while pistachios are a common garnish, other nuts like almonds or walnuts can be used to give the cookies a slightly different taste. The general recipe, however, remains fairly consistent, focused on coconut, egg whites, and sugar.

What Makes Shirini Nargili Different?

Shirini Nargili stands out from similar coconut-based treats because of its light and airy texture. Unlike dense coconut macaroons, these cookies are made with whipped egg whites, which contribute to their fluffy consistency. The batter is cooked until it thickens into a paste, which is then piped into delicate circles, creating a soft and melt-in-your-mouth experience. The addition of lemon juice and vanilla extract gives these cookies a subtle tangy and aromatic flavor that complements the richness of the coconut.

Where Are They Typically Served?

Shirini Nargili is often served during special celebrations, particularly for Nowruz, the Persian New Year. In Iran, they are enjoyed with tea, offering a sweet contrast to the bitterness of the tea. They are also a popular choice at weddings and other family gatherings, where their light, delicate texture is appreciated by guests of all ages. Due to their simplicity and elegance, these cookies have become a beloved snack across various Middle Eastern communities.

Interesting Facts

• Shirini Nargili is gluten-free, making it an excellent dessert option for those with gluten sensitivities.
• The cookies are often made in different shapes, such as round or oval, depending on the baker's preference.
• While coconut is the primary ingredient, the cookies are versatile and can be adapted with different nuts, dried fruits, or spices for unique flavor variations.
• In Iran, the preparation of Shirini Nargili is considered a form of art, with families passing down the recipe through generations.
• The cookies' airiness is achieved through careful mixing and the use of egg whites, which helps to create their light texture.

FAQ about Shirini Nargili Recipe

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