There are two cookie treats that define every Greek Christmas—kourabiedes and melomakarona
Kourabiedes are round, oval-, or crescent-shaped cookies infused with almond pieces and covered (and by that we mean covered) in castor sugar. The dough is crunchy and slightly grainy, but the castor sugar adds a blanket-soft cover that makes them irresistible during Christmastime.
The origin of this cookie is disputed; some sources say it originated in Persia, while others claim the kourabie that we enjoy today is a recipe brought over by exiled Greeks from Asia Minor, settling in northern Greece in the village of Nea Karvali. The main ingredients in kourabie are castor sugar, flour, and butter. Butter is one of the key elements in kourabie; fresh butter is preferred, giving the cookie a smooth but not overpowering flavor, similar to English shortbread. Rosewater or other kinds of flower water are usually added as well.
Melomakarona are soft, aromatic cookies infused with syrup and drizzled with chopped walnuts. This cookie is soft, juicy, and sometimes crumbly, with a pleasingly crunchy exterior. Key ingredients that give the melomakarona its characteristic texture and aroma include semolina, olive oil, orange zest, cinnamon, cloves, and sometimes an alcoholic flavoring from cognac or beer. Bakeries today may also add a chocolate coating or filling.
The name of this cookie is formed from the words “melo” (from meli, meaning honey) and “macaronia”. The latter word refers to a Greek funerary dish served during the Middle Ages, which in turn has its origins in “macaria”, ancient, cookie-sized funerary bread. With the ages, these breads were eventually dipped into honey and are hence the oft-claimed ancestor of today’s melomakarona (this chain of descent is also attributed as originating the words “macaroni” and “macaroon”).
Where to buy: These cookies can be found in bakeries all over Greece. Some of the most popular ones in the city are at the Veneti bakery chain and at Varssos (Kassaveti 5; 2108012472) in Kifissia.
My personal favorite: The kourabiedes and melomakarona made by the Violanta Cookies company, which are the most homemade we’ve had in years. You can find them at many small markets and delis around Athens, including at the online Wolt Market chain.
To make your own: You can’t go wrong with these traditional recipes from Greek Boston (kourabiedes and melomakarona)
The Athenian Site and The Holiday Chomp wishes you a fantastic holiday season with lots of good times, good food, and good cheer!
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