Ingredients
- 1 cup shortening
- ½ cup sugar (plus an additional ¼ cup for topping)
- 1 Tbsp chia seeds
- 3 Tbsp water
- 3 cups flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1-2 tsp anise seed
- 3 Tbsp orange juice
- 1 Tbsp cinnamon
This is a (veganized) traditional New Mexican recipe that has been made for many generations. Usually lard is used, but to make plant-based we simply substitute shortening and use chia instead of an egg. These delectable cookies are known to be found on many New Mexican tables at Christmas time.
- In a small bowl combine chia seeds and water. Set in refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to allow the chia seeds to soak up the water.
- Using a handheld mixer, beat together shortening and sugar until creamy. Add chia and beat until very fluffy.
- Sift together flour, baking powder, and salt; add to creamed mixture.
- Stir in orange juice and anise seed.
- Roll dough out on floured board to ¼ inch thick and cut into desired shape(s).
- Combine ¼ cup sugar and cinnamon and sprinkle on top of each cookie.
- Bake at 350º for 20 minutes or until light brown.
