Egyptian Basbousa, also known as Hareesa or Revani, is a traditional Middle Eastern dessert made from semolina, coconut, and yogurt. Famous for its moist texture and sweet flavor, it's a popular choice for celebrations such as weddings ,holidays and ramadan month.
The name "Basbousa" is derived from the Arabic "Basbasa," meaning "kiss" or "soft touch," reflecting its tender texture. Although its exact origins are unclear, Basbousa is widely recognized as an iconic Egyptian treat, also enjoyed across the Middle East and North Africa. Variations may include ingredients like rosewater, orange blossom water, or chocolate, highlighting its versatility and enduring appeal.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup semolina
- 1 cup desiccated coconut
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup almonds, chopped (for garnish)
Syrup:
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 1 1/2 cups water
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
Method:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Grease a 9-inch (23 cm) square baking dish with vegetable oil.
3. In a large bowl, combine the semolina, desiccated coconut, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
4. In a separate bowl, mix the yogurt, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Add this to the dry ingredients and mix well.
5. Stir in the water until the batter is thick and smooth.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared dish and smooth the surface.
7. Score the batter into diamond shapes with a knife and place an almond in the center of each diamond.
8. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
9. While baking, prepare the syrup by boiling sugar and water in a saucepan. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until thickened, then add lemon juice.
10. Pour the hot syrup over the hot Basbousa immediately after baking.
11. Allow the dessert to cool to room temperature before serving.
Notes:
- For best results, pour the syrup over the hot Basbousa to ensure it absorbs well.
- Substitute desiccated coconut with shredded coconut if needed.
- Feel free to use pistachios or other nuts in place of almonds.
- Adjust the sugar amount to your taste for a less sweet Basbousa.
Enjoy the rich, cultural heritage of Egyptian Basbousa with this simple yet delightful recipe!
Nutrition Value:
1. 1 cup semolina
- Calories: 360
- Carbohydrates: 72 grams
- Protein: 12 grams
- Fat: 1 gram
- Sodium: 0 milligrams
- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
- Vitamins: B vitamins (especially B6 and folate)
- Minerals: Iron, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc
- Nutritional benefit: Semolina is a good source of protein and essential minerals. It helps in energy production and supports bone health.
2. 1 cup desiccated coconut
- Calories: 330
- Carbohydrates: 12 grams
- Protein: 3 grams
- Fat: 30 grams
- Sodium: 15 milligrams
- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
- Vitamins: Vitamin C, Vitamin B6
- Minerals: Iron, magnesium, potassium, zinc
- Nutritional benefit: Desiccated coconut is rich in healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. It supports heart health, provides energy, and helps in digestion.
3. 1 cup sugar
- Calories: 774
- Carbohydrates: 200 grams
- Protein: 0 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Sodium: 0 milligrams
- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
- Vitamins: None
- Minerals: None
- Nutritional benefit: Sugar provides quick energy but lacks essential nutrients. It should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
4. 1 cup plain yogurt
- Calories: 150
- Carbohydrates: 11 grams
- Protein: 8 grams
- Fat: 8 grams
- Sodium: 115 milligrams
- Cholesterol: 30 milligrams
- Vitamins: Vitamin B12, riboflavin
- Minerals: Calcium, potassium
- Nutritional benefit: Yogurt provides protein, calcium, and probiotics, which are beneficial for digestive health and bone strength.
5. 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- Calories: 960
- Carbohydrates: 0 grams
- Protein: 0 grams
- Fat: 108 grams
- Sodium: 0 milligrams
- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
- Vitamins: Vitamin E
- Minerals: None
- Nutritional benefit: Vegetable oil is high in fats and provides vitamin E. It helps in maintaining healthy skin and provides energy.
6. 2 teaspoons baking powder
- Calories: 5
- Carbohydrates: 1 gram
- Protein: 0 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Sodium: 500 milligrams
- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
- Vitamins: None
- Minerals: None
- Nutritional benefit: Baking powder is used as a leavening agent in baking. It helps dough rise and contributes to the texture of baked goods.
7. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Calories: 12
- Carbohydrates: 1 gram
- Protein: 0 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Sodium: 1 milligram
- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
- Vitamins: None
- Minerals: None
- Nutritional benefit: Vanilla extract adds flavor without contributing significant nutrients. It enhances the taste of dishes and desserts.
8. 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Calories: 0
- Carbohydrates: 0 grams
- Protein: 0 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Sodium: 575 milligrams
- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
- Vitamins: None
- Minerals: None
- Nutritional benefit: Salt is used to enhance flavor and is essential for maintaining fluid balance. Excessive salt should be avoided for heart health.
9. 1/4 cup water
- Calories: 0
- Carbohydrates: 0 grams
- Protein: 0 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Sodium: 0 milligrams
- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
- Vitamins: None
- Minerals: None
- Nutritional benefit: Water is essential for hydration and supports all bodily functions, including digestion and temperature regulation.
10. 1/4 cup almonds, chopped (for garnish)
- Calories: 200
- Carbohydrates: 7 grams
- Protein: 8 grams
- Fat: 18 grams
- Sodium: 0 milligrams
- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
- Vitamins: Vitamin E, B vitamins
- Minerals: Calcium, magnesium, potassium
- Nutritional benefit: Almonds provide healthy fats, protein, and essential nutrients. They support heart health, provide energy, and contribute to overall wellness.
Syrup:
11. 1 1/2 cups sugar
- Calories: 1161
- Carbohydrates: 300 grams
- Protein: 0 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Sodium: 0 milligrams
- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
- Vitamins: None
- Minerals: None
- Nutritional benefit: Like plain sugar, it provides energy but lacks essential nutrients.
12. 1 1/2 cups water
- Calories: 0
- Carbohydrates: 0 grams
- Protein: 0 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Sodium: 0 milligrams
- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
- Vitamins: None
- Minerals: None
- Nutritional benefit: Essential for hydration and supports all bodily functions.
13. Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Calories: 6
- Carbohydrates: 2 grams
- Protein: 0 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
- Sodium: 1 milligram
- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
- Vitamins: Vitamin C
- Minerals: Potassium
- Nutritional benefit: Lemon juice adds vitamin C, which is important for immune function and skin health. It also provides a refreshing flavor.
Comments