Sahlab (Middle Eastern Pudding)
Description: Sahlab is a delightful and simple dessert that brings a taste of the Middle East right into your kitchen. This rich, creamy pudding is a staple in Palestinian cuisine and can be prepared in a flash, making it perfect for those last-minute cravings or a cozy treat on a chilly day. Whether you enjoy it warm or chilled, this pudding is versatile and always satisfying. Its comforting texture and subtly sweet flavor are enhanced by a sprinkle of ground cinnamon and a touch of shredded coconut or chopped pistachios.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups milk – Full-fat milk is ideal for a creamy consistency.
- 1/2 cup cornstarch – This will give the pudding its thick, luscious texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – For a hint of aromatic sweetness.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar – Adjust to taste if you prefer it sweeter or less sweet.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds a warm, spicy note.
- 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut – For a delightful texture and flavor.
- 2 tablespoons chopped pistachios – Optional, for a crunchy, nutty topping.
Instructions:
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Prepare the Cornstarch Mixture: In a small cup, combine 1/2 cup of cornstarch with a small amount of water (enough to dissolve it completely). Stir until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. This step is crucial to ensure your pudding has a silky texture.
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Heat the Milk: Pour 4 cups of milk into a soup pan or Dutch oven. Place the pan on the stove over medium heat.
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Incorporate the Cornstarch Mixture: Before the milk starts to heat up, stir in the cornstarch mixture. This prevents clumping and ensures a smooth pudding.
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Add Flavorings: Mix in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Stir the mixture continuously as it heats.
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Cook the Pudding: Continue stirring constantly until the mixture begins to boil. Once boiling, let it cook for an additional 2 minutes. It’s important to keep stirring to avoid burning and to ensure an even consistency.
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Serve: Transfer the pudding into dessert bowls.
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Add Toppings: Sprinkle with ground cinnamon and a handful of shredded coconut. Alternatively, you can top with chopped pistachios for a nutty twist.
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Enjoy: Sahlab is traditionally enjoyed hot, but it can also be served cold. Allow the pudding to cool and firm up in the refrigerator if you prefer it chilled. Both ways offer a delicious and comforting treat!
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 293.5
- Fat: 11.9 grams
- Saturated Fat: 7.4 grams
- Cholesterol: 45.5 milligrams
- Sodium: 161.5 milligrams
- Carbohydrates: 34.8 grams
- Fiber: 0.2 grams
- Sugar: 0.2 grams
- Protein: 10.7 grams
Recipe Keywords:
Lunch/Snacks, Coconut, Fruit, Nuts, Palestinian, Southwest Asia (Middle East), Asian, Winter, Sweet, < 15 Mins, Beginner Cook, Stove Top, Easy, Inexpensive
Feel free to adjust the level of sweetness or thickness by tweaking the sugar or cornstarch amounts to suit your taste. Sahlab is a wonderfully adaptable dessert that can be enjoyed all year round! 🌟🍮🥥
