I had no idea that Egyptian cuisine included such a delectable cake like basbousa. A waiter at a Middle Eastern restaurant introduced me to it and I instantly fell in love with this dessert. It’s amazing how great things in life come when you least expect them. Here’s my story.
On a balmy evening, I was visiting Atlanta, Georgia with a few of my closest friends. After some deliberation, we decided to try out a Middle Eastern restaurant located in the city. We were all excited to sample the cuisine that this place had to offer. Additionally, the atmosphere was vibrant and engaging, and it felt like an adventure from the moment we stepped through the door. It was definitely one of those nights that I’ll remember for years to come!
Once we had devoured our dinner, the waiter presented us with a delectable platter of Egyptian basbousa, an exquisite Egyptian dessert. This sweet and moist cake was made from semolina and delicately soaked in syrup, making it an absolute delight to consume. It was a delightful surprise, and we couldn’t help but ask about the recipe. Additionally, the waiter informed us that Egyptian it was made by a young Egyptian guy in the kitchen who was passionate about his culinary skills. His unparalleled skills greatly impressed us, and we were eager to get the opportunity to meet him in person and find out more about his remarkable invention. Consequently, we wanted to gain an insight into how he had crafted such a brilliant piece of work.
While we were sitting back, savoring the sweet and delicious dessert that had just been served to us, a large group of loud children suddenly arrived at the restaurant, completely shattering the tranquil atmosphere that had previously been so evident. Consequently, the children were running around in an impulsive manner and loudly shouting, creating a noisy atmosphere which was making it difficult for other diners to savor their meals. As a result, we could see that the young Egyptian man working in the kitchen was becoming increasingly frustrated. We intuitively realized that the disrespectful behavior of the kids was adversely affecting his work.
While the commotion still carried on, we completed our delicious dessert and got up to depart. However, I found it impossible to resist the urge to request the recipe from the young man. His dish seemed like such a delightful treat that I couldn’t help but inquire about how he prepared it. Additionally, I cautiously approached him, and he appeared to be somewhat skeptical. I earnestly explained to him that I was truly enthusiastic about discovering the method for making basbousa and had a strong desire to attempt it ourselves. As a result, after some convincing arguments, he eventually conceded to divulge the recipe with me.
I was absolutely ecstatic and couldn’t contain my anticipation to make the delicious Egyptian basbousa at home. The recipe seemed quite straightforward, and all of the ingredients could be easily acquired from any nearby grocery store. I was confident that with a bit of effort, I would be able to create this delightful dessert in no time at all! I followed the instructions rigorously and exactly, and I was amazed at the outcome. The cake was just as moist and full of flavor as it had been when we sampled one in the restaurant. To my surprise, it had turned out perfectly!
That night spent at the Middle Eastern restaurant in Atlanta was a truly remarkable and unforgettable experience. It made us realize that food can be so much more than just sustenance. It has the power to bring people together, connect cultures, and create moments of joy which will remain forever embedded in our memories.
The experience of engaging with people from different backgrounds and cultures taught us an invaluable lesson. When we demonstrate genuine interest and kindness, we can establish meaningful relationships which enable us to expand our knowledge. Such a connection allows us to broaden our horizons and gain insight into the lives of others; it also helps create a sense of community as we come together in mutual understanding.
To sum up, my experience at the Middle Eastern restaurant in Atlanta, Georgia was an unforgettable one. The Egyptian basbousa dessert was a delightful surprise, and I was truly touched by the young Egyptian guy’s kind-heartedness in generously sharing his recipe with me. It is certainly a memory that will stay with me for many years to come. Overall, it was an exceptional experience that truly demonstrated the power of food to bring people together and create unforgettable moments. It served as a reminder of how, in the simplest ways, we can create meaningful connections and memories with others.
So here is the recipe for the Egyptian basbousa from that restaurant:
Ingredients:
- 1 2/3 cup (306g) of semolina.
- 1/2 cup of ghee.
- 1 tbsp of honey.
- 1/2 cup or 116gr of sugar.
- 1/2 cup or 97gr of plain yogurt.
- 1/2 tbsp or 6gr of baking powder.
- 1/2 cup or 45gr finely shredded, unsweetened coconut flakes (optional).
- 0.5 Tbsp tahini + 1 Tbsp ghee for brushing the bottom.
For the syrup:
- 1 cup of water.
- 1 cup of sugar.
- 1 tsp of lemon juice.
- 2 tbsp of honey.
- 1/2 tsp of vanilla extract.
- Nuts for garnish (optional).
How to make Egyptian basbousa?
- Heat the oven to 350F.
- Combine semolina, baking powder, sugar, and coconut in a deep bowl
- Mix well to combine the dry ingredients
- Melt ghee in the microwave or stove top
- Dissolve honey in melted ghee
- Add ghee and honey mixture to the bowl of dry ingredients
- Mix well to combine all ingredients
- Add yogurt and mix until well incorporated
- Brush a round 12 inch baking sheet with tahini
- Spread the basbousa mixture evenly onto the baking sheet
- Decorate by spreading nuts on top evenly
- Bake in the middle of the oven until edges start to brown, approximately 10 minutes
- Move the basbousa to the higher shelf and continue cooking until golden brown, which will take approximately 15 to 20 minutes
How to make the syrup:
- Make the syrup when the basbousa is moved to the upper shelf
- Combine syrup ingredients in a small saucepan over medium heat
- Bring the mixture to a boil
- Reduce heat and let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes
- Switch off the heat and maintain the warmth of the syrup
- Once basbousa is finished baking, switch off the oven and take it out
- Evenly pour the syrup over the basbousa
- Immediately cover the basbousa with foil
- Put the covered basbousa back to the TURNED OFF oven for 5-10 minutes
- Remove the basbousa from the oven, cut it into pieces, and enjoy
There you have it! Egyptian basbousa is a great dessert for any meal or simply to serve when hosting your family and friends. I highly recommend that you try making it at home, and you won’t regret it. Happy baking!
