Basbousa
Basbousa is a traditional Middle Eastern sweet cake that has been an integral part of Arab cuisine for centuries. Often enjoyed during special occasions and celebrations, this delectable treat is known for its rich, tender texture and sweet, aromatic flavor. The word 'Basbousa' itself can be traced back to the Arabic term, which means 'just a little sweetened'. While its origins are debated, Basbousa is widely prepared and savored in countries such as Egypt, Lebanon, Turkey, and Greece (where it is known as Ravani or Revani). This delightful dessert is typically made from a semolina base, soaked in simple syrup, and often adorned with almonds or other nuts to add flavor and texture.
Ingredients
- Semolina - 2 cups
- Sugar - 1 cup
- Plain Yogurt - 1 cup
- Butter - 1/2 cup, melted
- Baking Soda - 1 teaspoon
- Baking Powder - 1 teaspoon
- Vanilla Extract - 1 teaspoon
- Water - 1 cup (for syrup)
- Sugar - 2 cups (for syrup)
- Lemon Juice - 1 tablespoon (for syrup)
- Rose Water - 1 tablespoon
- Almonds - Blanched and peeled for decoration
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish to ensure that the Semolina cake does not stick to the pan. This will help in easy serving later on.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the Semolina, Sugar, Plain Yogurt, and melted Butter. Stir these ingredients well until a uniform mixture is achieved. Adding Baking Soda and Baking Powder to the mix helps the cake rise and become light. Finally, introduce the Vanilla Extract for an aromatic touch.
Step 3: Arrange the Mixture
Pour the mixture evenly into the greased baking dish. Smooth out the top using a spatula ensuring it's level. This ensures even cooking throughout.
Complete Cooking Process
Step 4: Baking the Cake
Place the baking dish into the preheated oven and let it bake for approximately 30-35 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown. Use a toothpick to test for doneness; it should come out clean when the cake is ready.
Step 5: Prepare the Syrup
As the cake bakes, you can prepare the syrup. In a saucepan, combine Water and Sugar. Bring this mixture to a boil, allowing the sugar to fully dissolve. Once boiling, let it simmer for approximately 10 minutes. Add Lemon Juice and Rose Water to the syrup for a refreshing flavor. Let the syrup cool slightly.
Step 6: Soak the Cake
Once the cake is out of the oven, and still warm, pour the cooled syrup evenly over the cake. The cake will absorb the syrup, making it moist and flavorful.
Step 7: Decoration
Gently press the Blanched Almonds onto the top of the cake as decoration. Traditionally, the cake is cut into diamond shapes, and an almond is placed in the center of each piece.
Enjoying Basbousa
Serving Suggestions
Allow the cake to rest and absorb the syrup completely before serving. Basbousa can be served warm or at room temperature. Pair it with a cup of Arabic coffee or mint tea to enhance the Middle Eastern experience. The sweetness of the cake, combined with the aromatic syrup and the nutty crunch of almonds, provides a delightful contrast of flavors and textures, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion.
Storage Tips
Basbousa can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you wish to store it longer, refrigerate the cake for up to a week. Enjoy a slice of Basbousa whenever your sweet cravings strike!
Creating this delightful Basbousa is not just about indulging in a sweet treat; it's a celebration of tradition, culture, and love shared during memorable times.”