Discover how to make Harissa (Basbousa), a traditional Middle Eastern semolina cake soaked in a deliciously sweet syrup. This easy recipe features the rich flavors of rosewater or orange blossom water, creating a moist and fragrant dessert that's perfect for any occasion. Learn the step-by-step process to bake this classic treat and impress your guests with its delightful taste and texture.

Ingredients:

- For the Cake:

 - 1 cup semolina

 - 1 cup granulated sugar

 - 1 cup plain yogurt

 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

 - 1/2 tsp baking powder

 - 1/4 tsp salt

 - 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional)

- For the Syrup:

 - 1 cup granulated sugar

 - 1 cup water

 - 1 tbsp rosewater or orange blossom water (adjust to taste)

 - 1/2 tsp lemon juice

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven:

  - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking pan (about 9x9 inches) or line it with parchment paper.

Prepare the Cake Batter:

  - In a large bowl, combine semolina, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix well.

  - Stir in yogurt and melted butter until the mixture is smooth. If using, fold in shredded coconut.

  - Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.

Bake:

  - Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Prepare the Syrup:

  - While the cake is baking, prepare the syrup. In a saucepan, combine sugar and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.

  - Reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in rosewater or orange blossom water and lemon juice. Allow the syrup to cool.

Soak the Cake:

  - Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the cooled syrup evenly over the hot cake.

  - Let the cake absorb the syrup and cool completely before cutting into squares.

Serve and Enjoy:

  - Serve your Harissa (Basbousa) at room temperature. Enjoy this delightful, sweet treat with a cup of tea or coffee.

Nutritional values

For the Cake:

1 cup semolina

 - Calories: 600

 - Carbohydrates: 120g

 - Protein: 20g

Benefits: High in carbohydrates and provides a good amount of protein; contains fiber and B vitamins.

1 cup granulated sugar

 - Calories: 770

 - Carbohydrates: 200g

Benefits: Adds sweetness; however, high consumption can lead to health issues such as weight gain and diabetes.

1 cup plain yogurt

 - Calories: 150

 - Carbohydrates: 12g

 - Protein: 8g

Benefits: Provides protein, calcium, and probiotics for digestive health.

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

 - Calories: 400

 - Fat: 45g

Benefits: Source of fat and vitamin A; should be consumed in moderation due to high saturated fat content.

1/2 tsp baking powder

 - Calories: 0

Benefits: Leavening agent to help the cake rise.

1/4 tsp salt

 - Calories: 0

Benefits: Enhances flavor but should be used in moderation to manage sodium intake.

1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional)

 - Calories: 70

 - Fat: 6g

 - Carbohydrates: ~3g

Benefits: Adds healthy fats, fiber, and a unique flavor; contains minerals like iron and potassium.

For the Syrup:

1 cup granulated sugar

 - Calories: 770

 - Carbohydrates: 200g

Benefits: Provides sweetness; excessive consumption can contribute to health issues.

1 cup water

 - Calories: 0

Benefits: Essential for hydration and overall bodily functions.

1 tbsp rosewater or orange blossom water

 - Calories: 0

Benefits: Adds flavor; rosewater has antioxidant properties.

1/2 tsp lemon juice

- Calories: 1

 - Carbohydrates: 0.3g

Benefits: Adds flavor and vitamin C; helps balance the sweetness of the syrup.

The cake recipe combines semolina, sugar, yogurt, and butter to create a rich and flavorful dessert. Semolina adds texture and protein, while yogurt contributes moisture and probiotics. Butter provides fat, enhancing flavor and texture, though it should be used in moderation. The optional shredded coconut adds a pleasant taste and additional nutrients.

The syrup, made with sugar, water, and flavorings, adds sweetness and moisture to the cake. While sugar provides energy, it should be used judiciously to avoid excessive calorie intake.

Together, this cake and syrup recipe creates a sweet and satisfying dessert, balanced with flavors from yogurt and optional coconut, and enhanced with aromatic syrup.