Balaleet

Introduction to Balaleet

Balaleet is a traditional breakfast dish that hails from the Gulf region, particularly enjoyed in countries like the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Qatar, and Bahrain. It is an aromatic combination of sweet and savory, blending spiced vermicelli noodles with fragrant saffron and a hint of sugar, topped with an omelet. This dish elegantly embodies the rich culinary history and cultural tapestry of the Arabian Peninsula.Learn more about Balaleet.

Ingredients

The following ingredients are needed to make Balaleet. Click on each ingredient to learn more or to purchase them:

• Vermicelli
• Sugar
• Saffron
• Cardamom
• Rose Water
• Eggs
• Oil
• Salt
• Butter

Preparation

Preparing the Ingredients

1. Start by gathering all the ingredients. Make sure the vermicelli is broken into smaller pieces.

2. Soak a pinch of saffron in a tablespoon of warm water to extract its color and fragrance.

3. In a small bowl, mix a teaspoon of cardamom powder with a tablespoon of rose water.

Cooking Process

Cooking the Vermicelli

1. In a large pan, heat a tablespoon of butter and a dash of oil over medium heat.

2. Add the broken vermicelli and stir frequently until golden brown. Be sure not to burn it.

3. Once browned, add a cup of water and bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.

4. Add sugar, soaked saffron, and the cardamom-rose water mixture to the pan. Stir well to combine.

5. Cover the pan and let the vermicelli simmer for about 8-10 minutes or until all the liquid is absorbed and the vermicelli is tender.

Making the Omelet

1. In a separate bowl, beat two eggs with a pinch of salt.

2. Heat a non-stick pan with a little oil over medium heat.

3. Pour the beaten eggs into the pan and cook until fully set, flipping once to cook both sides evenly.

4. Once cooked, slide it onto a cutting board and cut into thin strips.

Assembling Balaleet

1. Place the cooked vermicelli onto a serving dish.

2. Top with the strips of omelet.

How to Enjoy Balaleet

Balaleet is best enjoyed immediately after it is prepared while the flavors are fresh, and the temperature is warm. It pairs well with a hot cup of traditional Arabic coffee or tea, enriching the cultural breakfast experience.

For an authentic presentation, consider serving Balaleet with dates and fruits on the side. This will provide a delightful balance to the dish's sweet and savory flavors. Many enjoy this dish with a final sprinkle of pistachios or almonds to add a crunchy texture.

Refer to this cooking timer if needed to manage the cooking stages.