my mum, Karyn
These were probably the first thing I ever made on my own. I made them ALL the time when I was a kid around 11 or so. I used to make a right royal mess, and Mum used to tell me off for being such a messy cook - "Clean up as you go along". Well, that's no fun!! I used to tell her I would clean up afterwards, and mostly, I did. But, I am not the best cleaner in the world, I must admit, so I can understand her frustration. Especially seeing as she isn't so much of a 'sweets' person, so I couldn't woo her with my biscuits once they were done... I do try and clean up a little bit as I go along these days, but I am still a pretty messy cook. Somehow I just love seeing the mess, - like I am creating a masterpiece that I have sunk my soul into, or something.
For those of you who are non-Australians or New Zealanders, I will give you a quick run-down on ANZAC biscuits. ANZAC stands for Australian and New Zealand Army Corps, who went and fought, (and mostly died) in Gallipoli in WWI. We honour & remember them on ANZAC day - April 25th. Anyway, Anzac Biscuits (and you MUST call them biscuits, or you can't call them Anzacs - it's true) were sent to the troops from the women at home. I believe because they were cheap, lasted a long time and tasted good. Believe me, they taste good.
They are chewy and crunchy all at once, and sweet and buttery. Delicousness. I made some this morning on a whim to say "I love you" to my husband (whose baking is soooo yummy), and I took a few extra to work to share. Well, I got a lot of love today, let me tell you!
So, while it is a little early for ANZAC Day, you could try them out ahead of time, any time will do. Let me know how you get on.
PS. We were also imagining dipping them in chocolate, to make a Chocolate-Coated Anzac Biscuit, - but I don't think we'd be allowed to call them Anzac Biscuits anymore.... I'm being serious.
ANZAC Biscuits
1 cup flour
1 cup sugar
1 cup rolled oats
1 cup coconut
4 oz butter
2 Tbsp boiling water
1 Tbsp syrup (I always have used honey)
1 tsp bicarb soda
1 cup rolled oats
1 cup coconut
4 oz butter
2 Tbsp boiling water
1 Tbsp syrup (I always have used honey)
1 tsp bicarb soda
~ mix baking soda with boiling water
~ melt butter and add syrup
~ mix dry ingredients. Then add wet and mix.
~ bake 12 mins (or until golden brown) in 375 degree oven.
