National Dish Mauritania: Amaretti (Recipe)
In this article
Meet Amaretti, the delicate almond biscuits that have travelled from northern Italy to become a cherished treat across Mauritania. With their crackled, crisp crust and soft, chewy centre, they capture everything wonderful about almonds in a single mouthful. Sweet yet gently bittersweet, these little morsels are the perfect companion to a strong coffee or an afternoon pot of tea — simple to make, and impossible to resist.
About Amaretti
Amaretti are irresistible almond biscuits celebrated for their unique flavour and their tender texture. Originally from the Lombardy region of Italy, they have since won hearts far beyond, and today they enjoy real popularity in Mauritania too. These little treats are made from almond flour, eggs and sugar, making them ideal for anyone who loves the taste of almonds. Their sweet-yet-savoury character makes them a wonderful snack or dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 100g almond flour
- 100g sugar
- 1 egg (medium)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon almond syrup (optional)
- Icing sugar, for dusting
Shopping for the ingredients
The ingredients for amaretti are easy to track down in most supermarkets or specialist delicatessens. Almond flour is the star of the recipe and can usually be found in the baking aisle or among the products for special diets and allergies. Look for untreated almond flour to get the very best flavour. If you cannot find almond syrup, natural vanilla extract makes a perfectly good stand-in.
Preparing the dish
Before you start on the amaretti, weigh out and set out all of your ingredients. It helps to line a baking tray with baking parchment to stop the biscuits sticking. Remember to preheat the oven to 180°C so it is ready at just the right moment. A calm, well-organised work surface means the biscuits come together quickly and smoothly.
Step-by-step instructions
- In a bowl, combine the almond flour, the sugar and the baking powder.
- Add the egg and mix everything into a smooth, pliable dough.
- If you like, stir in the almond syrup to deepen the flavour.
- Using a spoon, place small portions of the dough onto the baking tray.
- Bake the biscuits in the preheated oven for about 15–20 minutes, until lightly golden.
- Once baked, dust with icing sugar and leave to cool.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
Amaretti are naturally gluten-free, since they rely on almond flour rather than wheat. That makes them a great choice for anyone with a gluten intolerance or coeliac disease. They are also lactose-free, as long as no extra dairy is added — much like the naturally dairy-free Halwa. This means even more people can enjoy the little treats without a second thought.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
For a vegan version you can swap the egg for a mixture of flaxseed and water, or use another plant-based egg replacer. Stir one tablespoon of ground flaxseed into three tablespoons of water and let it sit for about 10 minutes to thicken. This egg alternative works well in the amaretti, though it will alter the texture slightly. Vegans should also make sure to use a vegan syrup or extract to boost the flavour.
More tips and tricks
One key tip is not to overbake the biscuits, as they can dry out. It is better to leave them a little soft, since they firm up as they cool. Keep an eye on them while they bake, because every oven behaves differently. Experiment with the baking time to find the perfect texture for you.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
You can easily vary the recipe by adding different flavourings, such as cinnamon or lemon zest, to give the biscuits a personal touch. A scattering of chopped nuts or a small handful of chocolate chips can enrich the flavour too. Try a few different versions and discover which one you like best. That way, every batch becomes something truly special.
Ingredient substitutions
If you do not have almond flour to hand, you can replace it with hazelnut flour or a blend of other nuts for different flavour notes. Do bear in mind that you may need to adjust the quantities, as different flours behave differently. If you would rather skip the sugar, agave syrup or stevia work well, though the taste may shift a little. Experiment with different alternatives to reach the perfect result — the same spirit of adaptation that makes a treat like Sellou so versatile.
Drink pairing ideas
Amaretti pair beautifully with a whole range of drinks. An espresso or a strong coffee complements the sweet biscuits perfectly and brings out their flavour. For something more refreshing, serve a herbal tea that echoes the biscuits’ aromas, or a spiced Mauritanian tea. A glass of sparkling wine also makes an elegant match, especially for festive occasions.
Serving and presentation ideas
How you present your amaretti can make all the difference to how impressive your dessert looks. Serve the biscuits on a pretty porcelain plate or in a glass container to show off their charm. You might also decorate with a dusting of icing sugar or a few whole almonds to lift the overall effect. An attractive presentation makes the nibbling all the more enjoyable and draws the eye.
A bit of history
The story of amaretti reaches back to the 18th century, when they were first made in Italy. The name comes from the Italian word amaro, meaning “bitter”, a nod to the blend of sweet and bitter notes the almonds bring. Traditionally they were baked and shared for special occasions. Over the years amaretti have grown into a much-loved snack and dessert in many countries, and they have found a happy home among the sweets of Mauritanian cuisine as well.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Amaretti
Amaretti are a wonderful addition to any coffee table or dessert selection. Their unmistakable flavour and straightforward preparation make them the perfect snack for any occasion. Whether classic or gently reinvented, these biscuits are always a delight. Experiment with flavours and present the amaretti with care to impress family and friends alike.
