Qalb el Louz is a beloved traditional North African dessert, particularly popular in Algeria, Tunisia, and Morocco. This semolina cake is characterized by its moist, nutty texture and fragrant syrup infused with orange blossom water. Typically served during festive occasions such as weddings, Eid, and family gatherings, Qalb el Louz combines simplicity in preparation with rich flavors, making it a favorite among dessert lovers. Its beautiful presentation and delightful taste make it a perfect end to any celebratory meal.
The origins of Qalb el Louz date back to the rich culinary traditions of North Africa, where sweets play an essential role in cultural celebrations. This dessert is a prime example of the influence of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors in North African cuisine. The use of semolina and almonds reflects the region’s agricultural products, while the incorporation of orange blossom water highlights the historical trade routes that brought fragrant spices and flavors to the area. Over the years, Qalb el Louz has evolved into a cherished symbol of hospitality and joy in North African households.
Ingredients:
1- 2 cups fine semolina
2- 1/2 cup almond flour
3- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
4- 1/2 cup sugar
5- 1/2 cup milk
6- 1/2 cup water
7- 1 tsp baking powder
8- 1 tsp vanilla extract
9- 1/2 tsp salt
10- 1/2 cup blanched almonds, sliced
11- 1/4 cup orange blossom water
For the syrup:
1- 1 1/2 cups water
2- 1 1/2 cups sugar
3- 1/4 cup orange blossom water
4- 1 cinnamon stick
Instructions:
1- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2- In a large mixing bowl, combine the semolina, almond flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3- Add the vegetable oil, milk, and water to the dry ingredients and mix well until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
4- Stir in the vanilla extract and orange blossom water.
5- Pour the batter into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish and smooth out the top with a spatula.
6- Arrange the sliced almonds on top of the batter in a decorative pattern.
7- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the cake is cooked through.
8- While the cake is baking, prepare the syrup. In a medium saucepan, combine the water, sugar, orange blossom water, and cinnamon stick. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the syrup has thickened slightly.
9- Remove the cinnamon stick from the syrup and pour it over the hot cake as soon as it comes out of the oven.
10- Allow the cake to cool to room temperature before slicing and serving.
Notes:
1- Qalb el Louz can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
2- The cake can be made without the almond flour if you prefer a smoother texture.
3- The syrup can be adjusted to taste. Add more or less sugar and orange blossom water as desired.
4- Qalb el Louz is traditionally served with a cup of mint tea.
Nutrition Value (per serving):
- Calories: 365
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 1mg
- Sodium: 177mg
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 28g
- Protein: 5g
Qalb el Louz is a traditional Middle Eastern dessert. Here are the nutrition facts for Qalb el Louz and its ingredients based on the quantities you provided:
2 cups fine semolina:
- Calories: 736
- Carbohydrates: 154g
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 1g
- Fiber: 11g
benefits: A coarse flour made from durum wheat, semolina is rich in protein and fiber, which can help in digestion and keep you feeling full longer.
1/2 cup almond flour:
- Calories: 320
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 28g
- Fiber: 6g
benefits: Almond flour is low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats, fiber, protein, and various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, magnesium, and manganese.
1/2 cup vegetable oil:
- Calories: 960
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 109g
- Fiber: 0g
benefits: Provides healthy fats and vitamin E, which is important for skin health.
1/2 cup sugar:
- Calories: 387
- Carbohydrates: 100g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
benefits: Provides quick energy, but should be consumed in moderation due to its high calorie content.
1/2 cup milk:
- Calories: 61
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
benefits: A good source of calcium, protein, and vitamin D, which are important for bone health.
1/2 cup water:
- Calories: 0
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
benefits: Essential for hydration and helps in digestion and nutrient absorption.
1 tsp baking powder:
- Calories: 2
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
benefits: Helps the dough rise and gives the final product a light and fluffy texture.
1 tsp vanilla extract:
- Calories: 12
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
benefits: Adds flavor and aroma to the dish.
1/2 tsp salt:
- Calories: 0
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
benefits: Enhances flavor and is necessary for various bodily functions, but should be consumed in moderation.
1/2 cup blanched almonds, sliced:
- Calories: 316
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 28g
- Fiber: 6g
benefits: Rich in healthy fats, fiber, protein, and various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E and magnesium.
1/4 cup orange blossom water:
- Calories: 0
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
benefits: Adds flavor to the syrup.
For the syrup:
1 1/2 cups water:
- Calories: 0
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
benefits: Essential for hydration.
1 1/2 cups sugar:
- Calories: 1080
- Carbohydrates: 279g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
benefits: Provides sweetness to the syrup.
1/4 cup orange blossom water:
- Calories: 0
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
benefits: Adds a floral aroma and flavor to the dish.
1 cinnamon stick:
- Calories: 6
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 2g
benefits: Adds a warm, spicy flavor to the syrup.
Please note that these nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific brands and variations in the ingredients used.
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