Tufahije

A traditional Bosnian dessert made of poached apples stuffed with walnuts and sugar.

Tufahije is a traditional dessert originating from Bosnia and Herzegovina, popular throughout the Balkans. This sweet treat consists of poached apples filled with a mixture of walnuts, sugar, and sometimes other ingredients, then topped with whipped cream.

History

Tufahije has its roots in the Ottoman Empire, which influenced the culinary traditions of the Balkans. The name "tufahije" is derived from the Arabic word "tuffah," meaning "apple." This dessert became a staple in Bosnian cuisine and is often served during special occasions and celebrations.

Ingredients

The primary ingredients for tufahije include:

• Apples: Firm varieties such as Granny Smith or Golden Delicious are preferred for their ability to hold shape during cooking.
• Walnuts: Chopped and mixed with sugar to create the filling.
• Sugar: Used both in the filling and the syrup for poaching the apples.
• Water: For creating the poaching syrup.
• Lemon juice: To add flavor and prevent the apples from browning.
• Whipped cream: For garnishing the finished dessert.

Preparation

File:Tufahije.jpg

A serving of tufahije garnished with whipped cream.

1. Core the Apples: The apples are peeled and cored, leaving them whole but hollowed out to make room for the filling.

2. Prepare the Filling: Walnuts are finely chopped and mixed with sugar. Some variations include adding cinnamon or raisins to the mixture.

3. Poach the Apples: The apples are poached in a syrup made from water, sugar, and lemon juice until they are tender but not falling apart.

4. Stuff the Apples: Once poached, the apples are filled with the walnut mixture.

5. Chill and Serve: The stuffed apples are chilled in the refrigerator. Before serving, they are topped with whipped cream.

Cultural Significance

Tufahije is more than just a dessert; it is a symbol of hospitality and tradition in Bosnian culture. It is often prepared for guests and during festive occasions such as Eid al-Fitr and weddings. The dessert's rich flavors and elegant presentation make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Variations

While the classic recipe remains popular, there are several variations of tufahije:

• Spices: Some recipes include spices like cinnamon or cloves in the filling.
• Nuts: Although walnuts are traditional, some variations use almonds or hazelnuts.
• Dried Fruits: Raisins or dried apricots can be added to the filling for additional sweetness and texture.

Related pages

• Bosnian cuisine
• Ottoman cuisine
• Desserts
• Apples