Muhallebi

Muhallebi Recipe: Creamy Arabian Dessert with Rose Water and Pistachios

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

Introduction

Muhallebi is a traditional Middle Eastern dessert that is loved for its creamy texture and delicate flavors. This simple yet delicious dessert is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth after a meal.

History

Muhallebi has been enjoyed for centuries in the Middle East and is believed to have originated in the Ottoman Empire. The name "muhallebi" comes from the Arabic word for "rice pudding," although the traditional recipe is made with corn flour instead of rice.

Ingredients

5 tbsp of corn flour
4 tbsp of sugar
1.2 liters (2 pt) of semi skimmed or full fat milk
1 tbsp of rose water
1 tsp of ground cardamom
1 heaped tablespoon of ground pistachios

How to prepare

In a large saucepan, place corn flour and gradually add milk. Mix well until the texture is smooth.
Next, add ground cardamom, sugar, and rosewater. Mix well.
Place the saucepan on medium heat and stir for about 10 minutes until the mixture thickens.
Immediately spoon the hot mixture onto a serving plate.
Sprinkle with ground pistachios and let it cool for 2 hours.

Variations

You can add a touch of orange blossom water or vanilla extract for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to continuously stir the mixture while cooking to prevent lumps from forming.

- Adjust the amount of sugar to suit your taste preferences.

- For a richer flavor, you can use full-fat milk instead of semi-skimmed milk.

Serving Suggestions

Serve muhallebi chilled with a sprinkle of ground pistachios on top for added flavor and texture.

Cooking Techniques

Stirring continuously while cooking is key to achieving a smooth and creamy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use almond milk or coconut milk as a dairy-free alternative.

Make Ahead Tips

Muhallebi can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve muhallebi in individual serving dishes garnished with a sprinkle of ground pistachios for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Muhallebi pairs well with fresh fruit such as berries or sliced mango.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover muhallebi in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, simply microwave for a few seconds until warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of muhallebi contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of muhallebi contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of muhallebi contains approximately 5 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of muhallebi contains approximately 3 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Muhallebi is a good source of calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth.

Alergens

Muhallebi contains dairy and nuts (pistachios), so it may not be suitable for those with allergies to these ingredients.

Summary

Muhallebi is a creamy and delicious dessert that is relatively low in calories and a good source of calcium.

Summary

Muhallebi is a delightful Middle Eastern dessert that is easy to make and sure to impress your guests with its creamy texture and delicate flavors. Enjoy this sweet treat after a meal or as a light and refreshing snack.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one I won't soon forget. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Fatima in her small village in Turkey. Fatima was known throughout the village for her delicious cooking, and I was eager to learn some of her secrets.

As we sat in her sunny kitchen, sipping on sweet tea, Fatima suddenly jumped up and disappeared into her pantry. She returned with a small, tattered notebook in her hands. "I have something special to share with you, my dear friend," she said with a twinkle in her eye.

Fatima opened the notebook to a well-worn page and began to read aloud. The recipe she shared was for a traditional Turkish dessert called Muhallebi. As she spoke, I could almost taste the creamy pudding, flavored with rosewater and topped with pistachios and cinnamon. My mouth watered at the thought of it.

Fatima explained that the recipe had been passed down through her family for generations, and that she had learned to make it from her own grandmother. She had added her own twist to the recipe, incorporating flavors and techniques that she had picked up over the years.

I watched intently as Fatima demonstrated each step of the recipe, taking notes and asking questions along the way. She laughed at my eagerness, telling me that the key to a perfect Muhallebi was patience and a gentle hand.

After hours of stirring, pouring, and chilling, the Muhallebi was finally ready. Fatima served it to me in a delicate glass dish, garnished with a sprinkle of crushed pistachios and a dusting of cinnamon. I took a spoonful and closed my eyes, savoring the creamy sweetness of the pudding.

From that moment on, I was determined to master the art of making Muhallebi. I practiced the recipe diligently, experimenting with different ingredients and techniques until I had perfected my own version of the dessert. I shared it with friends and family, who raved about its delicious flavor and creamy texture.

As the years went by, I continued to make Muhallebi for special occasions and gatherings, always thinking of Fatima and the day she had shared her treasured recipe with me. The dessert became a signature dish of mine, loved by all who tasted it.

Now, whenever I make Muhallebi, I think of Fatima and the warm summer day when she opened her heart and her kitchen to me. I am grateful for her generosity and her friendship, and for the delicious recipe that she passed down to me. The moment I found this recipe is one I will never forget.