Seeni Bello Sweet (Sri Lanka Cookies)

Method

1. Mix flour and egg, with your fingertips. Add the butter and continue until the mixture looks like crumbs. Add the water and knead to make a smooth dough. Cover and set aside for 10 minutes. This helps the dough to rest, creating a tender and light crumb to eat.
2. OPTION: If you are not keen to use your fingers, you can use two knives or a food processor.
3. After 10 minutes, make small balls (about one teaspoon in size). Roll each ball on the back of a fork to make a pattern similar to a seashell. Watch the video for help!
4. Heat oil on high until hot then turn down to medium heat. Put about 15 dough balls into the hot oil, making sure there is enough space. Fry for about 6 mins until lightly golden brown, turning at least once. Continue in small batches until all cooked. Place on a paper towel to drain or a cooling rack.
5. To make sugar syrup; put a medium size pot on high heat. Add water and sugar then lower the heat, stirring to simmer. Add the cardamom and continue stirring. (about 5 mins) Test the consistency, it should be syrupy which is when the mixture slowly drips off the back of the spoon. Add the cooked dough “seashell shapes”. Stir through the syrup and serve on a plate to serve.
6. VARIATIONS: Dip the balls in honey or chilli powder!