We're all familiar with Traditional Poppy Seed Hamantaschen, but this year I was motivated to put a twist on the traditional, and create this new version where I incorporate the poppy seeds into the dough and fill them with a tart lemon curd. Since lemon is my favorite flavor, I was extremely satisfied with the outcome.


The method is the same as for any other hamantaschen. If you're not familiar with how to fold them, check out this video. Full recipe below.




Wondering why Hamantaschen are traditional Purim fare? The reasons and symbolism are abundant. On the surface level, Haman, the evil villain from the Purim story, was said to wear a triangular hat. Alternatively, he is said to have had triangular ears (hence, the Hebrew name for hamantaschen, "Oznei Haman" - Haman's ears.

For a deeper look at the message behind the Hamantasch, read The Secret of the Hamantasch, Holy Hamantaschen, and Mystic Purim Pastries.

Ingredients

  • ½ cup sugar
  • ¼ cup oil
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 tsp. vanilla
  • 2-2½ cups flour
  • 1 tsp. baking powder
  • 2 tbsp. poppy seeds
  • zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 cup lemon curd

Directions

  1. Mix the eggs, sugar, oil and vanilla.
  2. Add 1 cup of flour, the poppy seeds, lemon zest, and the baking powder. Mix.
  3. Add the remaining flour until the dough forms a soft, but not sticky ball.
  4. Roll out the dough and cut out circles.
  5. Put a teaspoon of lemon curd in the center of each circle.
  6. Gently fold the sides and pinch shut tightly.
  7. Bake for 15 minutes on 350°F.

Yields: 20 Hamantaschen