Basbousa – Middle East

Basbousa is a popular Middle Eastern semolina cake soaked in sweet syrup, often flavored with coconut or rose water and topped with almonds.

Basbousa Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 1 cup semolina

• 1/2 cup sugar

• 1/2 cup plain yogurt

• 1/4 cup melted butter

• 1/4 cup desiccated coconut (optional)

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• Whole almonds (for topping)

For the Sugar Syrup:

• 1 cup sugar

• 1/2 cup water

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon rose water or orange blossom water (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cake Batter:

   • In a mixing bowl, combine semolina, sugar, yogurt, melted butter, baking powder, and coconut (if using) to form a thick batter.

   • Pour the batter into a greased baking pan, spreading it evenly.

2. Add Toppings:

   • Score the batter with a knife to make square or diamond shapes. Place a whole almond in the center of each piece.

3. Bake:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the cake for 25-30 minutes, or until it turns a golden brown color.

4. Prepare the Syrup:

   • In a small saucepan, combine sugar and water. Bring to a boil, then add the lemon juice and simmer for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.

   • Remove from heat and add rose or orange blossom water if desired.

5. Soak the Cake:

   • When the basbousa is out of the oven and still hot, pour the warm syrup evenly over it. Let it soak completely as it cools.

6. Serve:

   • Once cooled, cut along the scored lines and serve. Enjoy your sweet, moist Basbousa!

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