Hot, sticky, melty… No, we’re not talking about tropical summers. We seldom hear much about Egyptian desserts, but let us assure you – the nation offers some of the most delectable fare you can possibly try. Here are some of our top picks!
1. Roz bil-Laban
A simple yet delicious dessert made with just rice and milk, it is similar to the Indian Kheer. Top them up with cinnamon and nuts, and stick into the fridge for a few hours. You will forget all about ice cream.
Find recipe here
2. Basbousa
This is a sweet cake with a wheat and cereal base . One look at it getting dipped in syrup, flavoured with orange or lemon and scented with rose, makes your mouth water. It is usually topped with various nuts to make the taste even more delicious. Semolina, flour, sugar and butter is all that you need to make it.
Find recipe here
3. Qatayef
Dumplings first boiled and then fried in bubbling hot oil. Thick cream or custard on the inside which flows like jelly into your mouth as you bite into it. Sounds heavenly, right? ‘Arabic pancakes’ as they are called in foreign lands, qatayef are found in every street corner especially during the Ramadan.
Find recipe here
4. Umm Ali / Om Ali
A scrumptious Egyptian dessert which will remind you of bread pudding. It requires only three main ingredients – puff pastry, milk and water. The dessert is baked, making the pastry flaky. The intricate garnish of whipped cream and ice cream lends it the oh-so-delectable final touch.
Find recipe here
5. Kanafeh
Cheese pastry soaked in sugar syrup – you can find it nearly anywhere in Syria and northern Egypt. Kanafeh comes in two forms – either with a crust of thin noodles, or with dough. Top it up with raisins , nuts and cream for an unforgettable taste.
Find recipe here
While we’re talking about Egypt, why not check out this museum in Cairo that you simply can’t afford to miss!
(Input: TS intern Jai Khajuria)
