Easter in Majorca is a time full of ancient traditions, same as in many other parts of Spain. Among these traditions, we would like to highlight those related to popular gastronomy.
Our renowned dry pastries called Crespells decorate every typical Majorcan table during this time of year. These sweet biscuits are made
mostly of flour, egg yolk, lard, sugar and olive oil.
According to tradition, the days before Easter, family and friends gather at home to share the preparation of this gastronomic delight, as well as others known as robiols (pastries stuffed with custard or cottage cheese) or Majorcan frito (a dish whose main ingredients are lamb and vegetables).
Undoubtedly, crespells require and encourage the most family involvement, as children are more involved than any one in their preparation.
Their shape varies depending on the mould used, but the most common are stars, flowers and hearts. These pastries are of Jewish origin, fact that is revealed by one of their most frequent shapes, the six petal flower, which is a variation of the Jewish-Muslim star formed by two
overlapping triangles.
But fear not, if you visit the island at a different time from Easter, you will also be able to enjoy this delicacy. They can now be found throughout the year in any traditional patisserie.
Want to try it yourself?
Ingredients:
1 kg flour
250g lard
300g sugar
1 glass of orange juice
1 glass olive oil
1 glass of sweet wine
3 egg yolks
Icing sugar (for presentation)
Preparation:
Preheat oven at 190°C.
You will need a bowl large enough to easily knead the dough. Pour the flour into the bowl, make a hole in the middle and add all the other
ingredients: oil, orange juice, lard, glass of sweet wine, sugar and egg yolks.
Mix well and knead until you have a compact but tender dough.
Roll it out on a flat surface with a roller until it is half a centimetre thick. Cut the dough with the moulds and place it on a baking tray greased or lined with baking paper.
Lower the oven temperature to 180ºC and bake for approx. 20 minutes, checking occasionally to prevent burning.
Remove from oven and place on a large platter. Once they cool down, sprinkle them with icing sugar and serve.
... You can now enjoy this delicacy from Majorca’s popular cuisine!
Mallorca
Pollensa
Alcúdia
Cala d'Or
