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Saffron Pistachio Basbousa

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A delightful Middle Eastern dessert featuring semolina, saffron, and pistachios, caramelized with a sweet syrup.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup semolina
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup yogurt
  • 1/2 cup melted butter
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon saffron strands
  • 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon rose water (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease your baking dish with butter or oil.
  2. Combine the semolina, sugar, yogurt, melted butter, and baking powder in a large mixing bowl until smooth.
  3. Add the saffron strands and stir well.
  4. Pour the batter into the greased baking dish, smoothing the top.
  5. Score the surface into diamond or square shapes and place a pistachio in the center of each piece.
  6. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.
  7. Prepare the syrup by boiling water, sugar, lemon juice, and rose water (if using) for about 5 minutes.
  8. Pour the hot syrup over the warm basbousa as soon as it comes out of the oven.
  9. Cool completely before cutting into squares or diamonds.

Notes

Make-ahead tips: Store the basbousa and syrup separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. Customize the dish with shredded coconut or cardamom-infused syrup for a unique flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: saffron, pistachio, basbousa, Middle Eastern dessert, semolina cake

Find it online: https://oliviatable.com/saffron-pistachio-basbousa/