Recipe: Muhallabia – Lebanese Almond Cream Pudding
Description:
Indulge in the exquisite flavors of Lebanese cuisine with this delightful Muhallabia recipe, a traditional almond cream pudding that’s creamy, fragrant, and utterly satisfying. This recipe, steeped in the culinary heritage of Southwest Asia, particularly Lebanon, promises a sweet finale to any meal, featuring the subtle essence of rose water and the crunch of pistachios for a truly authentic experience. Perfect for dessert lovers craving a taste of the Middle East, this dish is quick and easy to prepare, requiring just a few simple ingredients and minimal time on the stove.
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6
Nutritional Information per Serving:
- Calories: 202.7
- Fat: 10.4g
- Saturated Fat: 3.2g
- Cholesterol: 17.1mg
- Sodium: 85.8mg
- Carbohydrates: 21.9g
- Fiber: 1.6g
- Sugar: 8.8g
- Protein: 6.9g
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup ground rice
- 3 cups milk
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 3/4 cup ground almonds
- 1 tablespoon rose water
- Pistachios for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | In a small bowl, blend the ground rice with 1/4 cup of milk until smooth. Set aside. |
| 2 | In a saucepan, bring the remaining milk to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. |
| 3 | Once the milk is boiling, gradually whisk in the ground rice mixture, salt, and sugar. Continue stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. |
| 4 | Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently to ensure it thickens evenly. If necessary, reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. |
| 5 | Next, add the ground almonds to the simmering mixture, stirring continuously until the pudding becomes smooth and creamy. |
| 6 | Drizzle in the fragrant rose water, infusing the pudding with its distinct floral aroma. Stir well to incorporate. |
| 7 | Once the pudding reaches the desired consistency and thickness, remove it from the heat and set it aside to cool slightly. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent a skin from forming on the surface. |
| 8 | After the pudding has cooled for a few minutes, carefully pour it into a serving bowl, smoothing the surface with a spatula for an elegant presentation. |
| 9 | For a decorative touch, sprinkle crushed pistachios over the top of the pudding before serving. This step is optional but adds a delightful crunch and visual appeal. |
| 10 | Serve the Muhallabia pudding either warm or chilled, allowing your guests to savor the rich flavors and creamy texture with every spoonful. Enjoy this Lebanese delicacy as a satisfying dessert or a sweet treat any time of day. |
Embrace the culinary heritage of Lebanon and the Middle East by preparing this authentic Muhallabia pudding in your own kitchen. With its luscious almond creaminess and delicate floral notes, this dessert is sure to impress your family and friends, transporting them to the vibrant streets of Beirut with every decadent bite. Whether served as the perfect ending to a Middle Eastern feast or enjoyed on its own, this traditional Lebanese delight is a true culinary gem that deserves a place at your table. Try it today and experience the magic of Muhallabia firsthand! 🍨🌹🇱🇧
