Qirban
Qirban Recipe from Lebanon with Flour, Yeast, Salt, Sugar, and Orange
Introduction
Qirban is a traditional Middle Eastern dessert that is popular during special occasions and celebrations. This sweet treat is made with simple ingredients like flour, yeast, sugar, and rose water, and is often enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee.
History
Qirban has been a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine for centuries, with its origins dating back to ancient times. It is believed that this dessert was first created by nomadic tribes who needed a portable and long-lasting food source during their travels.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- Gradually combine the flour, yeast, salt, sugar, orange blossom water, and water until a dough similar to bread dough is formed.
- Let the dough rest for 2 hours.
- Shape the dough into cakes the size of a tea saucer.
- Poke the dough with a fork or knitting needle, especially in the center, to prevent it from puffing up.
- Bake in the oven at medium heat.
- Serve chilled.
Variations
- Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top before baking for a nutty flavor.
- Drizzle honey or syrup on top of the baked Qirban for extra sweetness.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to let the dough rest for at least 2 hours to allow the yeast to activate and the flavors to develop.
- Use a fork or knitting needle to poke holes in the dough before baking to prevent it from puffing up too much.
- Serve Qirban chilled for the best taste and texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Qirban with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a delightful treat.
Cooking Techniques
Bake the Qirban in the oven at medium heat until golden brown and crispy.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use orange blossom water instead of rose water for a different flavor profile.
- Substitute honey for sugar for a healthier alternative.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the dough for Qirban ahead of time and bake it when ready to serve.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Qirban on a decorative platter with a dusting of powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair Qirban with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert combination.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store leftover Qirban in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Qirban contains approximately 250 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Qirban contains approximately 50g of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Qirban contains approximately 5g of fats.
Proteins
Each serving of Qirban contains approximately 3g of proteins.
Vitamins and minerals
Qirban is not a significant source of vitamins and minerals.
Alergens
Qirban may contain gluten and traces of nuts.
Summary
Qirban is a sweet and indulgent dessert that is best enjoyed in moderation due to its high sugar content.
Summary
Qirban is a delightful Middle Eastern dessert that is easy to make and perfect for special occasions. Enjoy this sweet treat with a cup of tea or coffee for a truly indulgent experience.
How did I get this recipe?
I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Qirban. It was many years ago, when I was a young girl living in the bustling city of Istanbul. My grandmother, who was a skilled cook and a master of traditional Turkish recipes, had invited me into her kitchen to help her prepare a special meal for our family.
As I watched her move gracefully around the kitchen, effortlessly chopping vegetables and seasoning meats, I couldn't help but marvel at her skill and expertise. She had a way of cooking that was both precise and intuitive, and I knew that I wanted to learn everything I could from her.
On this particular day, she was making Qirban, a traditional Turkish dish that I had never heard of before. It consisted of tender lamb simmered in a rich broth with onions, garlic, and spices, then served over a bed of fluffy rice. The aroma that filled the kitchen was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish.
"Come here, my dear," my grandmother said, beckoning me over to her side. "I want to show you how to make Qirban. It is a recipe that has been passed down through generations in our family, and I am excited to teach it to you."
I eagerly joined her at the stove, watching as she added the lamb to the pot and began to brown it over a medium flame. As the meat sizzled and released its savory aroma, she explained the importance of browning the meat properly to develop flavor.
"Once the lamb is browned, we will add the onions and garlic to the pot," she said, her voice filled with warmth and wisdom. "These aromatics will infuse the broth with their rich flavors, creating a delicious base for the dish."
I helped her chop the onions and garlic, marveling at her deft knife skills and the way she seemed to move with such grace and ease in the kitchen. As we added the vegetables to the pot and stirred them gently, the scent of cooking onions and garlic filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.
Next, she added a blend of spices – cumin, coriander, and paprika – along with a splash of tomato paste and a generous amount of water. The pot simmered gently on the stove, filling the kitchen with the heady aroma of spices and simmering meat.
"Now we wait," my grandmother said, her eyes twinkling with anticipation. "The longer the Qirban simmers, the more flavorful it will become. Patience is the key to a truly delicious dish."
As we waited for the Qirban to finish cooking, my grandmother regaled me with stories of her own childhood in the Turkish countryside, where she had learned the art of cooking from her own mother and grandmother. She spoke of the importance of using fresh, seasonal ingredients, and the joy that came from sharing a meal with loved ones.
Finally, after what seemed like an eternity of waiting, the Qirban was ready. My grandmother ladled steaming portions of the dish into bowls, topping each with a generous spoonful of fluffy rice. The aroma that wafted up from the bowl was heavenly, and I eagerly took my first bite.
The flavors of the Qirban were rich and complex, with tender pieces of lamb melting in my mouth and the savory broth infusing every bite with warmth and comfort. I closed my eyes, savoring the taste of tradition and love that my grandmother had poured into this dish.
As I finished my meal, I knew that I had learned more than just a recipe that day – I had learned the importance of family, tradition, and the joy that comes from sharing a meal with loved ones. My grandmother's teachings would stay with me for the rest of my life, guiding me as I continued to explore the world of cooking and create my own recipes to pass down to future generations.
And so, the recipe for Qirban became not just a dish to me, but a symbol of love, connection, and the enduring power of family traditions. I am grateful for the lessons my grandmother taught me that day, and for the memories we shared in her kitchen as we cooked together. The recipe for Qirban will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the love and wisdom that has been passed down through generations in my family.
Categories
| Bread Dough Recipes | Lebanese Recipes | Lebanese Snacks | Rose Water Recipes | Snack Recipes | Yeast Recipes |