Savor the melody of sweetness with “Basbousa,” a delectable Middle Eastern dessert that harmonizes the richness of semolina, the sweetness of syrup, and the nutty crunch of almonds. Basbousa is not just a cake; it’s a celebration of texture, flavor, and the joy that comes with each moist and indulgent bite. Join us as we delve into the sweet symphony of Basbousa.
Food Region & History
Basbousa, also known as Hareeseh or Revani, has roots deeply embedded in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines. Originating from the Levant region, this beloved dessert has found its way onto tables across the Middle East, offering a sweet respite during festive occasions, family gatherings, and celebrations of joy. Basbousa is a testament to the region’s love for desserts that are as delightful as they are comforting.
Ingredients
Embark on a flavor-packed journey with the carefully selected ingredients that compose our Basbousa:
- Semolina
- Sugar
- Yogurt
- Desiccated coconut
- Butter
- Baking powder
- Orange blossom water or rose water
- Almonds, blanched and halved
Syrup
- Sugar
- Water
- Lemon juice
- Orange blossom water or rose water
Instructions
- Prepare Basbousa Batter:
- Combine semolina, sugar, yogurt, desiccated coconut, melted butter, baking powder, and a touch of orange blossom water or rose water. Mix until you achieve a smooth batter.
- Bake to Golden Perfection:
- Pour the batter into a baking dish and smooth the surface. Top it with blanched and halved almonds. Bake until the Basbousa is golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean from the center.
- Prepare Sugar Syrup:
- In a saucepan, combine sugar, water, and lemon juice. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Add orange blossom water or rose water and simmer until the syrup thickens slightly.
- Saturate with Syrup:
- Once the Basbousa is out of the oven, immediately pour the warm sugar syrup over the hot cake. Allow the Basbousa to absorb the syrup and enhance its moisture.
- Cool and Slice:
- Let the Basbousa cool before slicing it into diamond or square-shaped pieces. The syrup-soaked cake is now ready to be enjoyed.
Nutritional Benefits
While Basbousa is a delightful indulgence, it also offers some nutritional benefits. Semolina provides a good source of energy, and the addition of yogurt adds a dose of probiotics and calcium to the treat.
Conclusion
Basbousa is more than a dessert; it’s a symphony of flavors and textures that dances on the taste buds. Whether shared during festive feasts or savored as a sweet treat, Basbousa invites you to experience the joy of Middle Eastern indulgence.