African Food and Art

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Boxing Day South African Cookies

Boxing Day South African Cookies Recipe and History of Boxing Day

Listen to the Boxing Day South African Cookie Recipe and the History of Boxing Day.

Boxing Day is observed as a public holiday in many Southern African countries. Boxing Day historically held deep significance as a rare day of recognition and appreciation for hard work. 

While Christmas Day was often spent serving the households of wealthier families, Boxing Day provided an opportunity to receive small tokens of gratitude, known as Christmas boxes. 


Ground cookies with a jelly, Center


In households that observed Boxing Day traditions, servants were often granted a lighter workload or even a day off to visit family or enjoy the holiday. Today, Boxing Day is associated with relaxation and shopping. 

Thumbprint Cookies with South African Sweet Chutney

Ingredients


1 cup unsalted room-temperature butter

1 cup granulated sugar

2 large chicken egg yolks

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 cups all-purpose flour

½ teaspoon salt

½ cup South African sweet chutney 

1 chicken egg white, lightly beaten 

Finely chopped nuts (optional for coating)


Directions 


In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.


Add the egg yolks and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.


Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing just until the dough comes together. Cover and chill for 30 minutes.


Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.


Roll the dough into 1-inch balls. If desired, dip each ball in the beaten egg white, then roll in chopped nuts. Place on the baking sheet.


Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to press a small indent into the center of each ball. Spoon about ½ teaspoon of the chutney into each indent.


Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack before serving.

Next.

More about Boxing Day.

Boxing Day celebrated as a public holiday in several Southern African nations, carries with it a rich historical significance that transcends mere festivities. Traditionally, this day has served as a poignant reminder of acknowledgment and appreciation for those who labor tirelessly. While Christmas Day was often devoted to serving affluent households, Boxing Day emerged as a rare opportunity for workers to receive tokens of gratitude known as Christmas boxes. These small gifts, filled with thoughtful treats or monetary rewards, symbolized respect and recognition for their hard work, allowing them a moment of joy and celebration in contrast to their usual duties.

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