Minkows

Minkows is a term that refers to a specific type of pastry, often found in the culinary traditions of Eastern European Jewish communities. These pastries are typically small, crescent-shaped, and made with a rich, flaky dough. The filling can vary, but common ingredients include sweetened cheese, often farmer's cheese or ricotta, and sometimes nuts like walnuts or poppy seeds. Fruit fillings, such as prune or apricot, are also popular.

The dough itself is usually a yeasted or shortcrust pastry, designed to achieve a delicate, buttery texture when baked. Minkows are often dusted with powdered sugar or glazed after baking, adding to their appealing appearance and sweet flavor. They are frequently enjoyed with coffee or tea, serving as a popular breakfast item or dessert. The preparation of minkows can be a time-consuming process, requiring careful handling of the dough to ensure the characteristic flakiness. While the exact origin is debated, their widespread popularity suggests a long history within Ashkenazi baking.