The Algerian M'halbi is a traditional dessert renowned for its creamy texture and delicate flavor, infused with rose or orange blossom water. This dessert reflects Algeria's rich culinary heritage, blending influences from Berber, Arab, and Mediterranean cuisines. Historically, M'halbi has been enjoyed for centuries in Algerian homes, often served during festive occasions or as a comforting treat. Its preparation involves simmering milk with sugar and cornstarch to achieve a smooth consistency, then flavoring with floral waters before chilling to set. This recipe not only satisfies the palate but also preserves a taste of Algeria's cultural traditions through its delicious simplicity.

Ingredients:

For the M'halbi:

• 1 liter of milk
• 100 grams of cornstarch
• 150 grams of granulated sugar
• 1-2 tablespoons of rose or orange blossom water (adjust to your preference)
• A pinch of ground cinnamon (optional, for garnish)

For the Garnish (optional):

• Toasted and chopped almonds or pistachios
• Ground cinnamon

Instructions:

Mix the Cornstarch: In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch with a bit of cold milk, and stir until it forms a smooth paste. Make sure there are no lumps.

Heat the Milk: In a saucepan, pour the remaining milk and heat it over medium heat. Add the sugar and stir until it's fully dissolved. Bring the milk to a gentle simmer.

Add the Cornstarch: Once the milk is simmering, gradually add the cornstarch paste while continuously stirring the milk. This will help prevent lumps from forming. Continue to cook the mixture over low to medium heat while stirring constantly.

Flavor with Rose or Orange Blossom Water: After a few minutes, the mixture will thicken. At this point, add the rose or orange blossom water. Adjust the quantity to your taste. Continue to cook for a few more minutes until the mixture has a creamy consistency.

Pour into Serving Dishes: Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately pour the M'halbi into individual serving dishes or a large serving bowl. Allow it to cool to room temperature.

Chill: Once the M'halbi reaches room temperature, cover it with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming and refrigerate for a few hours, or until it's cold and set.

Serve: When ready to serve, you can garnish the M'halbi with a pinch of ground cinnamon and some toasted, chopped almonds or pistachios.

M'halbi is a delectable Algerian dessert that's both easy to prepare and full of rich, aromatic flavors. Enjoy this sweet treat with family and friends, savoring the essence of Algerian cuisine.

Nutritional Values

Here are approximate nutritional values for the main ingredients used in the M'halbi recipe. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific brands and types of ingredients you use, as well as the serving size. These values are provided per 100 grams of each ingredient:

Milk:

• Calories: 42 kcal
• Protein: 3.4 grams
• Carbohydrates: 4.8 grams
• Sugars: 4.8 grams
• Fat: 1.0 gram
• Calcium: 125 mg

benefits:

• Excellent source of calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth.
• Good source of protein, which is crucial for muscle repair and growth.
• Contains vitamins and minerals like vitamin D, vitamin B12, potassium, and phosphorus.

Cornstarch:

• Calories: 381 kcal
• Protein: 0.3 grams
• Carbohydrates: 91.3 grams
• Sugars: 0.3 grams
• Fat: 0.1 gram
• Dietary Fiber: 0.9 grams

benefits:

• Used as a thickening agent, giving the M'halbi its pudding-like consistency.
• Gluten-free alternative to flour for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Provides energy due to its carbohydrate content.

Granulated Sugar:

• Calories: 387 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 99.98 grams
• Sugars: 99.98 grams
• Fat: 0 grams

benefits:

• Adds sweetness to the dessert.
• Provides quick energy, though should be consumed in moderation.
• Enhances flavor and texture.

Rose or Orange Blossom Water (trace amounts are used, so nutritional impact is negligible)

benefits:

• Adds a floral aroma and delicate flavor to the dessert.
• Commonly used in Middle Eastern and North African cuisine for its distinctive taste.
• Can have calming and soothing properties.

Almonds (for garnish):

• Calories: 576 kcal
• Protein: 21.2 grams
• Carbohydrates: 21.7 grams
• Sugars: 4.4 grams
• Fat: 49.9 grams
• Dietary Fiber: 12.5 grams

benefits:

• Adds crunch and texture to the dessert.
• Good source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber.
• Provides various vitamins and minerals like vitamin E, magnesium, and potassium.

Pistachios (for garnish):

• Calories: 562 kcal
• Protein: 20.3 grams
• Carbohydrates: 27.3 grams
• Sugars: 7.7 grams
• Fat: 45.3 grams
• Dietary Fiber: 10.3 grams

benefits:

• Adds crunch and texture to the dessert.
• Good source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber.
• Provides various vitamins and minerals like vitamin E, magnesium, and potassium.

Please note that the nutritional values provided are approximate and can vary based on the specific brands and measurements you use in your recipe. Additionally, the serving size of your M'halbi may differ from the 100-gram reference used for these values, so be sure to adjust accordingly when calculating the nutritional content for your specific serving.