Mama Nadia’s Basbousa

The first time I spent a few days with my mother in law, she introduced me to many delicious Egyptian desserts. Although One of which is now my favorite dessert: basbousa. I don’t know if it’s the taste or the consistency, but it is everything you want in one bite. The nice thing about this dessert, is that it is pretty quick and easy to make. We have tested a few recipes and of course, my mother in law’s is the best. If you’ve never had basbousa or any Egyptian delicacy, I suggest you start here!

Ingredients for basbousa:

• 1 1/2 cup semolina

• 1/2 cup softened butter

• 1/2 cup sugar

• 1/2 cup flour

• 1 cup plain yogurt.

• 1 tsp baking powder.

• 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut

• 1 Tbsp of tahini

• Blanched almonds (decoration)

Ingredients for syrup:

• 1 1/2 cup of sugar

• 1 1/2 cup of water

• 1 lemon (squeezed)

Directions for basbousa

1. Combine semolina with softened butter and mix. You can use a fork to mix initially and then work in with hands.

2. Add flour, unsweetened shredded coconut, sugar, and baking powder and mix.

3. Add 1 cup of yogurt until well combined. The mixture should become a soft dough so you can add more yogurt until you get to that consistency.

4. Brush a round 9x12 inch baking sheet with the tahini and spread the basbousa mixture evenly.

5. Spread nuts on top evenly to decorate.

6. Cut it per your preference. This particular one we decided to go with a diamond shape.

7. Bake at 350-380F for 45 min and until golden brown.

Directions for syrup

1. Prior to starting basbousa, being to make the syrup (syrup should be very runny).

2. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine water and sugar.

3. After 10-15 minutes of the water and sugar boiling, add the juice of 1 lemon.

4. Simmer for a total of 1-2 minutes after adding the lemon.

5. When basbousa is done, turn off your oven and take it out.

6. Pour the syrup evenly and cover the basbousa immediately.

7. If you can (it’ll be hard but you can do it) wait 1 hour before eating.