Here’s a recipe for a classic Arabic cake called “Basbousa” or “Revani.” It’s a semolina cake soaked in syrup, often flavored with rose water or orange blossom water, and sometimes garnished with nuts. It’s moist, sweet, and fragrant—a delightful treat!
Ingredients:
For the cake:
- 1 cup semolina
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1/2 cup desiccated coconut (optional)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Blanched almonds or pine nuts for garnish (optional)
For the syrup:
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon rose water or orange blossom water
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish (about 9×13 inches) with butter or oil.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the semolina, sugar, plain yogurt, melted butter, desiccated coconut (if using), baking powder, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly using a spatula.
- Using a sharp knife, score the surface of the batter into diamond or square shapes.
- If desired, place a blanched almond or pine nut in the center of each shape for decoration.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- While the cake is baking, prepare the syrup. In a saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and lemon juice. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has completely dissolved.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer the syrup for about 10-15 minutes, until it slightly thickens.
- Remove the syrup from the heat and stir in the rose water or orange blossom water. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the warm syrup evenly over the hot cake.
- Allow the cake to cool completely in the baking dish, allowing it to absorb the syrup.
- Once cooled, cut the cake along the scored lines into individual pieces and serve.
Enjoy your delicious Arabic Basbousa cake! It’s perfect for serving with tea or coffee as a sweet treat.
