Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups semolina
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups sugar
- 2 cups butter, melted
- 2 cups plain yogurt
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 2 cups chopped dates
- 2 cups chopped walnuts
Special Equipment Needed:
- 9x13 inch baking pan
- Whisk
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan with butter.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together semolina, all-purpose flour, sugar, melted butter, yogurt, baking powder, baking soda, cardamom, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves until well combined.
3. Stir in chopped dates and walnuts until evenly distributed.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan and spread evenly.
5. Bake in preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Let cool before serving.
Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Temperature: 350°F
Serving Size: 12
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 545
Fat: 24g
Carbohydrates: 72g
Protein: 9g
Substitutions for Ingredients
- Semolina: can be substituted with fine cornmeal
- All-purpose flour: can be substituted with whole wheat flour
- Butter: can be substituted with coconut oil
- Yogurt: can be substituted with sour cream
- Dates: can be substituted with raisins
- Walnuts: can be substituted with almonds
Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical twist.
- Substitute dates and walnuts with other dried fruits and nuts of your choice.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to grease the baking pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Let the basbousa cool completely before cutting into it.
Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation Ideas:
- Cut into small squares and serve on a platter.
- Dust with powdered sugar and serve with a dollop of whipped cream.
Garnishes:
- Chopped dates
- Chopped walnuts
- Powdered sugar
Pairings:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Milk
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Hummus
- Baba ghanoush
- Tabbouleh
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the basbousa is not cooked through, cover with foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure all ingredients are fresh and not expired.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Food History:
Basbousa is a traditional Middle Eastern dessert that is believed to have originated in Egypt. It is made with semolina, yogurt, and sugar, and is often topped with nuts and dried fruits.
Flavor Profiles:
This basbousa has a sweet, nutty flavor with hints of cardamom, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a dessert after a Middle Eastern-inspired meal.
- Serve as a snack with a cup of tea or coffee.
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Region: Middle Eastern