Khabeesa I

Khabeesa I Recipe: Vegetarian Food from Oman

Region / culture: Oman | Preparation time: 5 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Khabeesa is a traditional Middle Eastern dessert made with simple ingredients like milk, sugar, and farina. It has a creamy and slightly sweet flavor that is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

History

Khabeesa has been enjoyed in Middle Eastern countries for centuries, with variations of the recipe being passed down through generations. It is often served during special occasions and celebrations as a delicious and comforting treat.

Ingredients

0.33 cup sugar
1 tbsp ground cardamom
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp rose water
0.5 tsp saffron
5 cups milk
0.75 cup farina

How to prepare

In a saucepan, combine all the ingredients and bring them to a boil. Reduce the heat to the lowest level and let it simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Serve the mixture warm in individual bowls or small dessert plates. Optionally, drizzle with more melted butter if desired.

Variations

Add chopped nuts or dried fruits to the mixture for added texture and flavor.
Substitute the rose water with orange blossom water for a different floral flavor profile.
Top the dessert with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for a decadent treat.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to stir the mixture constantly while it simmers to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the saucepan.

- Adjust the sweetness of the dessert by adding more or less sugar to suit your taste preferences.

- For a richer flavor, you can use whole milk instead of low-fat milk.

Serving Suggestions

Khabeesa can be served warm or cold, depending on your preference. It pairs well with a sprinkle of ground cardamom or a drizzle of honey for added sweetness.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a delicious Khabeesa is to simmer the mixture on low heat, allowing the flavors to meld together and the farina to thicken.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have farina on hand, you can substitute it with semolina or cream of wheat for a similar texture.

Make Ahead Tips

Khabeesa can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Khabeesa in decorative bowls or dessert plates for an elegant presentation. Garnish with a sprinkle of ground cardamom or a few strands of saffron for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Khabeesa pairs well with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy and comforting dessert experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Khabeesa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Khabeesa contains approximately 200 calories, making it a relatively low-calorie dessert option.

Carbohydrates

Khabeesa is a carbohydrate-rich dessert, with the main source of carbs coming from the farina and sugar in the recipe.

Fats

The butter in the recipe adds a small amount of fat to the dessert, giving it a rich and creamy texture.

Proteins

While Khabeesa is not a significant source of protein, the milk in the recipe does provide some protein content.

Vitamins and minerals

Khabeesa contains vitamins and minerals from the milk, such as calcium and vitamin D, which are important for bone health.

Alergens

Khabeesa contains dairy (milk) and butter, so it may not be suitable for those with dairy allergies.

Summary

Khabeesa is a delicious and creamy dessert that is relatively low in calories but high in carbohydrates. It is a great option for satisfying your sweet cravings without overindulging.

Summary

Khabeesa is a simple and delicious Middle Eastern dessert that is perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings. With its creamy texture and subtle sweetness, it is sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Khabeesa. It was many years ago, during a visit to my dear friend Fatima's house. Fatima's mother was known for her delicious cooking and I always looked forward to trying out new dishes whenever I visited. On this particular day, as I sat in their cozy kitchen sipping on tea, I noticed Fatima's mother busily preparing a dish that smelled absolutely divine.

Intrigued, I asked her what she was making and she smiled, saying it was a traditional Saudi Arabian dessert called Khabeesa. She explained that it was a sweet semolina pudding infused with aromatic spices like cardamom and saffron, and topped with crunchy almonds and pistachios. I couldn't wait to taste it, and when she offered me a spoonful, I was instantly hooked.

The flavors of the Khabeesa were unlike anything I had ever tasted before - a perfect balance of sweetness and warmth that left me craving for more. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this delightful dessert myself.

Over the years, I have collected recipes from various places and people, but the recipe for Khabeesa held a special place in my heart. I made it a point to perfect the dish, tweaking the ingredients and proportions until I was satisfied with the results. Each time I made Khabeesa, it brought back memories of that day at Fatima's house and the warmth of her mother's kitchen.

To make Khabeesa, you will need:

- 1 cup semolina

- 1 cup sugar

- 4 cups milk

- 1/2 cup ghee

- 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom

- A pinch of saffron threads

- 1/4 cup slivered almonds

- 1/4 cup chopped pistachios

In a large saucepan, melt the ghee over medium heat. Add the semolina and cook, stirring constantly, until it turns golden brown and gives off a nutty aroma. This step is crucial as it adds depth of flavor to the dish.

Next, add the milk, sugar, cardamom, and saffron to the saucepan. Stir well to combine all the ingredients and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low and let the Khabeesa simmer, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to a pudding-like consistency.

Once the Khabeesa is ready, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. Serve it warm in individual bowls, garnished with slivered almonds and chopped pistachios for an added crunch.

The beauty of Khabeesa lies in its simplicity and versatility. It can be enjoyed as a dessert on its own, or paired with a dollop of creamy vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat. I have even served it as a breakfast dish, topped with fresh fruits and a drizzle of honey.

As I sit in my kitchen now, preparing a batch of Khabeesa for my family, I can't help but feel grateful for the memories and experiences that have shaped my culinary journey. Each recipe I learn and master is a testament to the love and passion I have for cooking, and Khabeesa will always hold a special place in my heart as a reminder of the wonderful friendships and flavors that have enriched my life.

So, if you ever find yourself craving a taste of something sweet and comforting, give this recipe for Khabeesa a try. I promise it will transport you to a world of warmth and happiness with every spoonful.