'Sabors de sempre' explores Holy Week sweets in Xàtiva

The television program highlights the traditional preparation of arnadí and monjàvena with the participation of local chefs.

Image of arnadí, a traditional Valencian dessert made from pumpkin and almonds.
IA

Image of arnadí, a traditional Valencian dessert made from pumpkin and almonds.

The television program 'Sabors de sempre' arrives in Xàtiva to delve into the culinary tradition of Holy Week, focusing on the preparation of arnadí and monjàvena, two sweets with Arab roots.

Hosted by Àlex Blanquer and chef Rubén Fenollar, the episode, airing on Wednesday at 10:45 PM, will feature Maruja Roca, from forn de Pla, and young chef Saray Estarlich. Both will showcase traditional and reinterpreted versions of these desserts.
Arnadí is a sweet primarily made from pumpkin, which, once cooked and drained, is mixed with sugar, ground almonds, egg yolks, cinnamon, and lemon zest. Traditionally, it is decorated with whole almonds in a crown shape and served chilled. Meanwhile, monjàvena, also of Arab origin, is a cake made with oil, water, salt, eggs, flour, sugar, cinnamon, and butter. This sweet, also known as almoixàvena or moixàvea, is typical of Carnival or Lent, although it can be found year-round in Xàtiva's bakeries.
Xàtiva's bakeries prepare thousands of these delicacies during Holy Week, reflecting the importance of these sweets in local culture. In the episode, Maruja Roca and Saray Estarlich, along with chef Rubén Fenollar, will explore both classic recipes and innovative proposals, such as a monjàvena pudding or an arnadí mousse with citrus gel.
In addition to the cooking, Àlex Blanquer will guide viewers through Xàtiva and its surroundings, and will be the guest of honor at the final tasting held in the Plaça de la Seu. The program thus aims to showcase the cultural richness, landscapes, and local customs, offering a vivid portrait of Valencian identity.