Umm Ali, often referred to as "Ali's Mother," is a traditional Egyptian dessert that resembles a rich and comforting bread pudding. This delightful treat features layers of flaky puff pastry soaked in a creamy mixture of milk, heavy cream, sugar, and infused with nuts, raisins, and spices. Baked to golden perfection, Umm Ali is typically served warm, topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Umm Ali has deep roots in Egyptian culinary history, dating back to the 13th century during the Ayyubid dynasty. Named after a noblewoman known for her delectable sweets, Umm Ali's recipe was passed down through generations in her honor. The name translates to "Ali's Mother," reflecting the dessert's homage to the woman who inspired it. Over time, Umm Ali has become a beloved staple in Egyptian cuisine, enjoyed for its rich flavor and comforting texture.
Ingredients:
- 1 package of puff pastry
- 4 cups of milk
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1/2 cup of sugar
- 1/2 cup of raisins
- 1/2 cup of chopped pistachios
- 1/2 cup of chopped almonds
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- Whipped cream and additional cinnamon for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Thaw the puff pastry according to the package instructions.
3. Cut the thawed puff pastry into small pieces and place them in a large baking dish.
4. In a saucepan, heat the milk, cream, and sugar over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
5. Stir in the raisins, pistachios, almonds, and vanilla extract.
6. Pour the mixture over the puff pastry in the baking dish.
7. Sprinkle cinnamon on top.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
9. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
10. Serve warm with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Notes:
- Customize with your favorite nuts or add shredded coconut for extra texture.
- For a richer dessert, increase the cream and reduce the milk.
Enjoy Umm Ali as a warm, indulgent dessert perfect for any occasion!
Nutrition Value:
1. 1 package of puff pastry
- Calories: 800 (varies by brand)
- Carbohydrates: 80 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Fat: 50 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Cholesterol: 40 mg
- Vitamins: Small amounts of Vitamin A
- Minerals: Small amounts of calcium and iron
- Nutritional Benefit: Puff pastry provides a buttery texture and richness, though it is high in fat and calories.
2. 4 cups of milk
- Calories: 300 (whole milk)
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Protein: 16 g
- Fat: 16 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Cholesterol: 60 mg
- Vitamins: Good source of Vitamin D and Vitamin B12
- Minerals: High in calcium and phosphorus
- Nutritional Benefit: Milk adds creaminess and essential nutrients like calcium and protein, contributing to bone health and muscle function.
3. 1 cup of heavy cream
- Calories: 800
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Fat: 85 g
- Sodium: 60 mg
- Cholesterol: 330 mg
- Vitamins: Small amounts of Vitamin A
- Minerals: Small amounts of calcium
- Nutritional Benefit: Heavy cream provides richness and a creamy texture but is high in fat and calories.
4. 1/2 cup of sugar
- Calories: 400
- Carbohydrates: 100 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Sodium: 0 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: None
- Minerals: None
- Nutritional Benefit: Sugar adds sweetness, though it contributes no essential nutrients and should be consumed in moderation.
5. 1/2 cup of raisins
- Calories: 220
- Carbohydrates: 58 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Sodium: 10 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Contains some Vitamin B6 and Vitamin K
- Minerals: Good source of iron, potassium, and magnesium
- Nutritional Benefit: Raisins provide natural sweetness and fiber, along with essential minerals for overall health.
6. 1/2 cup of chopped pistachios
- Calories: 160
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Fat: 14 g
- Sodium: 0 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Contains Vitamin B6 and Vitamin K
- Minerals: High in potassium, magnesium, and iron
- Nutritional Benefit: Pistachios are nutrient-dense, providing healthy fats, protein, and essential minerals.
7. 1/2 cup of chopped almonds
- Calories: 260
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Fat: 22 g
- Sodium: 0 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Rich in Vitamin E
- Minerals: High in magnesium, calcium, and iron
- Nutritional Benefit: Almonds offer a good source of healthy fats, protein, and vitamins, supporting heart health and providing antioxidants.
8. 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- Calories: 12
- Carbohydrates: 0 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Sodium: 0 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: None
- Minerals: None
- Nutritional Benefit: Vanilla extract enhances flavor without adding significant calories or nutrients.
9. 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- Calories: 6
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Sodium: 1 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Contains some Vitamin K
- Minerals: Provides manganese and calcium
- Nutritional Benefit: Cinnamon adds flavor and has antioxidant properties, which may support metabolic health.
10. Whipped cream and additional cinnamon for topping
- Whipped cream (2 tablespoons):
- Calories: 50
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Fat: 5 g
- Sodium: 5 mg
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
- Vitamins: Small amounts of Vitamin A
- Minerals: Small amounts of calcium
- Nutritional Benefit: Whipped cream adds a creamy texture but is high in calories and fat.
- Additional cinnamon (1/4 teaspoon):
- Calories: 2
- Carbohydrates: 0.5 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Sodium: 0 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Contains small amounts of Vitamin K
- Minerals: Provides manganese
- Nutritional Benefit: Cinnamon enhances flavor and provides antioxidants.
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