Mon Calas have always been vital assets to the rebel alliance, especially Prince Lee-Char, Nahdar Vebb, and from the cold side of the planet, Raddus. But the most famous Mon Cala citizen has to be Admiral Ackbar. Even though he doesn’t show up until Return of the Jedi, he still feels like a major character in the original trilogy. He’s an excellent commander, who makes plenty of hard decisions, and I wouldn’t have anyone else informing me that “It’s a trap!”

After being freed from Imperial Slavery by Juno Eclipse, he joined the Rebel Alliance. He also successfully recruited all of Mon Calamari to the cause. He fought in many battles and played a major role in securing the New Republic, after the Rebel victory on Endor. He’s also an AMAZING singer! Who knew?!
Which makes it all the more sad that he won’t be back for episode 9. :’( I can’t lie, his death hit me pretty hard. It was just so sudden, and I love Ackbar! As relieved as I was that General Organa was okay, it barely took the sting out of losing Ackbar. *sigh*

Admiral Gial Ackbar, I salute you with a batch of cheesy goldfish crackers, shaped like your face.

Admiral Ackbar Crack-Ars

 

Makes 18

Ingredients:

• 8 oz (or 1 standard-sized bag) extra sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 stick (1/4 cup) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2-3 Tablespoons ice water

Directions:

1. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, mix together the cheese, butter and salt.
2. Add the flour, and mix until pebbly.
3. Slowly add the ice water, and mix until the dough forms a ball. You may not need all the water.
4. Shape the dough into a disc, wrap in plastic, and place it in the fridge for half an hour.
5. Pre-heat your oven to 375 degrees F.
6. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper, and set aside.
7. Divide the dough into 4 pieces, and roll each portion to about a 1/4″ thick.
8. Using an Ackbar cookie cutter, cut out your crackers, and transfer them to your prepared baking sheets. With this particular cookie cutter, I used one side to cut the shape of Ackbar’s Head, then I flipped the cutter over and stamped his face on top of the shape.
9. Bake for 15-17 minutes, or until puffed and browned at the edges.
10. Place on a wire rack to cool. Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
11. It’s been an honor snacking with all of you.