A Dessert to Celebrate the Jewish Holiday of Purim

Purim commemorates the deliverance of the Jewish people in the ancient Persian Empire where a plot had been formed to destroy them.

Based on the Biblical Book of Esther (Esther 9:22): “As the days wherein the Jews rested from their enemies, and the month which was turned unto them from sorrow to joy, and

from mourning into a good day: that they should make them days of feasting and joy, and of sending portions one to another, and gifts to the poor.”

Purim is therefore celebrated by:

1. Exchanging reciprocal gifts of food and drink known as mishloach manot.
2. Donating to the poor known as mattanot la-evyonim.
3. Eating a celebratory meal known as a se'udat P
4. 'Purim'..Public recitation, usually in synagogue, of the Scroll of Esther known as kriat ha-megillah.
5. Reciting additions to the daily prayers and the grace after meals known as Al HaNissim.
6. Other customs include drinking wine, wearing of masks and costumes, and public celebration.

Hamantaschen A recipe for triangular Purim cookiesBy Joan Nathan

This is a tried and true recipe for the quintessential Purim cookie. Put them in yourmishloach manotto share with loved ones.

Directions

1. Cream the shortening with sugar. Add egg and continue creaming until smooth.
2. Add the vanilla. Stir in the sifted flour, baking powder, and salt until a ball of dough is formed (a food processor is excellent for this).
3. Chill for 2-3 hours, or overnight.
4. Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
5. Taking 1/4 of the dough, roll out on a lightly floured board to a thickness of 1/8 inch. Cut circles of dough with a drinking glass or round cookie-cutter. With your finger put water around the rim of the circle. Fill with 1 teaspoon poppy-seed or nut filling and fold into three-cornered cookies. (Press two sides together, and then fold the third side over and press the ends together.)
6. Bake on a well-greased cookie sheet 10-16 minutes, until the tops are golden.

Reference: http://www.myjewishlearning.com/holidays/Jewish_Holidays/Purim/At_Home/Foods/Hamantaschen.shtml