I. What is Anzac Biscuit?
An Anzac biscuit is a traditional Australian sweet treat that is popularly enjoyed during Anzac Day, a national day of remembrance in Australia and New Zealand. These biscuits are made from a combination of oats, desiccated coconut, flour, sugar, butter, golden syrup, baking soda, and boiling water. Anzac biscuits are known for their chewy texture and sweet, buttery flavor, making them a favorite among both children and adults.
II. History of Anzac Biscuit
The origins of Anzac biscuits can be traced back to World War I, where they were reportedly sent by wives and women’s groups to soldiers serving overseas. The biscuits were designed to be long-lasting and nutritious, as they did not contain eggs, which were scarce during the war. The name “Anzac” stands for Australian and New Zealand Army Corps, the soldiers who fought in the Gallipoli Campaign during the war.
Over time, Anzac biscuits became a symbol of home and comfort for soldiers serving abroad. Today, they are still enjoyed as a traditional treat to commemorate the sacrifices made by the Anzacs during the war.
III. Ingredients in Anzac Biscuit
The key ingredients in Anzac biscuits include rolled oats, desiccated coconut, flour, sugar, butter, golden syrup, baking soda, and boiling water. Rolled oats give the biscuits their chewy texture, while desiccated coconut adds a subtle nutty flavor. The combination of butter and golden syrup provides richness and sweetness to the biscuits, while baking soda helps them rise and become crispy on the edges.
IV. How to Make Anzac Biscuit
To make Anzac biscuits, start by preheating your oven to 160°C (320°F) and lining a baking tray with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, desiccated coconut, flour, and sugar. In a saucepan, melt butter and golden syrup together over low heat. In a small bowl, mix baking soda with boiling water and add it to the butter mixture.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until well combined. Using a spoon or cookie scoop, form the dough into small balls and place them on the prepared baking tray. Flatten each ball slightly with the back of a spoon.
Bake the Anzac biscuits for 12-15 minutes or until they are golden brown. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the tray for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy these delicious biscuits with a cup of tea or coffee.
V. Variations of Anzac Biscuit
While traditional Anzac biscuits are made with oats, coconut, and golden syrup, there are many variations of this classic recipe. Some people like to add chocolate chips, dried fruit, or nuts to the dough for extra flavor and texture. Others prefer to use different types of sweeteners, such as honey or maple syrup, instead of golden syrup.
For a healthier version of Anzac biscuits, you can substitute some of the butter with coconut oil or applesauce. You can also use whole wheat flour or almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for a nuttier taste. Experiment with different ingredients to create your own unique twist on this beloved Australian treat.
VI. Serving and Storing Anzac Biscuit
Anzac biscuits are best served warm or at room temperature, accompanied by a hot beverage like tea or coffee. They can also be enjoyed on their own as a sweet snack or dessert. Store any leftover biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
To keep Anzac biscuits fresh for longer, you can freeze them in a ziplock bag or airtight container for up to three months. Simply thaw them at room temperature or reheat them in the oven before serving. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or as a nostalgic treat, Anzac biscuits are sure to delight your taste buds with their delicious flavor and chewy texture.