Beji (cookie) facts for kids
| Alternative names | Bersagh |
|---|---|
| Type | Pastry |
| Place of origin | Iran |
| Region or state | Kermanshah, Ilam and Kurdistan |
| Main ingredients | Flour، Oil |
Beji (also called Berji, Pashi, or Barsaq, Persian: بجی) is a yummy, traditional sweet from the Kurdish regions. You'll find it mostly in places like Kermanshah, Ilam, and Kurdistan in Iran. This tasty treat is made mainly from wheat flour and oil. After it's cooked, people often sprinkle sugar or powdered sugar on top to make it even sweeter!
What is Beji?
Beji is a type of pastry, like a sweet bread or cookie. It's a popular snack or dessert, especially during special times or celebrations in Kurdish culture. It's known for its unique flavor and texture.
How is Beji Made?
Making Beji involves mixing several simple ingredients. Here's what usually goes into it:
- Flour
- Sugar
- Oil (often wheat oil)
- Eggs
- Milk
- Spices like cumin, fennel, and turmeric
All these ingredients are mixed together to form a dough. Then, the dough is shaped and fried in hot oil until it's golden brown and crispy. Finally, it's often garnished with more sugar, making it a delightful sweet snack.
What Does the Name "Beji" Mean?
The name "Beji" or "Berji" comes from a Kurdish word that means "toast" or "roasted." This makes sense because the sweet is fried until it's nicely browned, almost like it's been toasted.
There's another interesting idea about the name! Some people believe "Beji" means "survival." In the past, this sweet was a popular homemade snack that travelers would carry with them. It was a simple, filling food that helped them "eat and stay alive" during their journeys. So, it was more than just a treat; it was a way to keep going!
