Are you craving something sweet but also looking for a dessert with nutritional benefits? Look no further than 100 G Basbousa. This delightful semolina dessert has just 268 calories per serving, making it a guilt-free treat.

Basbousa originates from Egypt and is commonly found throughout the Middle East and North Africa. It's made with semolina flour, sugar, and butter, and infused with syrup or honey to give it a sweet, syrupy taste.

In this article, we'll explore the history and origin of Basbousa, the ingredients used in making it, its nutritional benefits, variations, and serving suggestions. Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth while also fueling your body with good nutrients.

The History and Origin of Basbousa

Basbousa dates back to the Ottoman Empire, where it was known as revani. It then spread throughout the Middle East and North Africa, where it's now a popular dessert served for social and religious occasions. In Egypt, Basbousa is known as harissa and is traditionally served during Ramadan. It's also a common dessert for weddings and other celebrations. Each region has its own variations and methods of preparing Basbousa, adding to its rich cultural history. Today, Basbousa is becoming increasingly popular worldwide, and for good reason. Not only is it a delicious dessert, but it also offers a range of nutritional benefits.

The Ingredients Used in Making Basbousa

Basbousa is made with simple and natural ingredients, including semolina flour, sugar, baking powder, yogurt, butter, and eggs. Semolina flour is a key ingredient in Basbousa and is a good source of protein, fiber, and minerals such as iron and magnesium. The yogurt in Basbousa provides probiotics and protein, while the eggs offer additional protein and healthy fats. When combined, these ingredients make a delicious and nutritious dessert that can be enjoyed guilt-free.

The Recipe for Making Basbousa at Home

To make Basbousa, you will need the following ingredients: 1 cup semolina flour, 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup melted butter, 1/2 cup plain yogurt, 2 eggs, 1 tsp baking powder, and 1/4 cup almonds or pistachios for decoration. To prepare, preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9in x 13in baking dish. In a mixing bowl, combine the semolina flour, sugar, baking powder, melted butter, yogurt, and eggs. Mix well until the batter is smooth. Pour the batter into the greased baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown. Once finished, take the Basbousa out of the oven and let it sit for 10 minutes before slicing it into small squares. Decorate with almonds or pistachios and serve warm.

The Nutritional Benefits of Basbousa

Basbousa is a nutritious dessert that is rich in protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The semolina flour in Basbousa is a good source of protein, fiber, and minerals like iron and magnesium that support heart health and immune function. The yogurt in Basbousa provides probiotics that support gut health, while the almonds or pistachios on top add healthy fats and antioxidants that protect cells from damage. As a whole, Basbousa is a wholesome dessert that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. However, be sure to enjoy it in moderation, as it still contains sugar and calories.

The Different Variations of Basbousa Recipe

While the classic Basbousa recipe involves semolina flour, sugar, yogurt, and butter, there are endless variations to try. Some recipes use coconut flakes or coconut milk to add flavor, while others use orange blossom water or rose water to infuse the dessert with a floral aroma. Different regions also have their own variations. For example, in Lebanon, Basbousa is made with a layer of clotted cream, while in Syria, it's topped with a chunky sugar syrup. You can experiment with different variations and find your favorite. Basbousa can also be sliced into smaller pieces and served with fresh fruit or whipped cream for a fancier dessert presentation.

The Best Serving Suggestions for Basbousa

Basbousa can be enjoyed warm or cold, making it a versatile dessert for any occasion. It's commonly served with a drizzle of syrup or honey on top to give it a sweet, sticky texture. You can also serve Basbousa with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a richer dessert experience. Alternatively, topping it with fresh fruit like berries or sliced mango can add a touch of freshness and balance out the sweetness. No matter how you choose to serve it, Basbousa is a crowd-pleasing dessert that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

The Popular Regions Where Basbousa is Eaten

Basbousa is a beloved dessert throughout the Middle East and North Africa, where it's commonly served at social gatherings and religious celebrations. It's an especially popular dessert in Egypt, where it's known as harissa and is served during Ramadan and other special occasions. In Lebanon, it's often enjoyed with a side of Turkish coffee or mint tea. Basbousa is also becoming increasingly popular worldwide as more people discover its unique taste and nutritional benefits.

The Difference Between Basbousa and Other Semolina-Based Desserts

While Basbousa is made with semolina flour like other desserts such as namoura and revani, it has a distinct syrupy texture that sets it apart. Namoura, for example, is made with semolina flour, butter, and sugar, but is not infused with syrup like Basbousa. Revani, on the other hand, is also made with semolina flour and is infused with a sugar syrup, but is often served in its cake form instead of sliced into small squares like Basbousa. Basbousa's unique texture and serving style make it a beloved dessert for many, and its versatility allows for endless variations and creative interpretations.

The Occasions Where Basbousa is Usually Served

Basbousa is a popular dessert for social and religious occasions throughout the Middle East and North Africa. In Egypt, it's often served during Ramadan and is also a common dessert for weddings and other celebrations. In Lebanon and other countries, Basbousa is often enjoyed with a cup of Turkish coffee or mint tea as an afternoon treat. It can also be served at family gatherings, festive events, and in some cases, as a daily dessert. No matter the occasion, Basbousa is a dessert that brings people together and is often shared with loved ones.

The Top Tips for Perfectly Making Basbousa

When making Basbousa, be sure to mix the semolina flour, sugar, and baking powder thoroughly before adding in the wet ingredients. This will ensure that the batter is smooth and free of lumps. While baking the Basbousa, keep an eye on it to prevent over-browning. The dessert should be golden brown on the surface but not burnt. After removing it from the oven, let it sit for 10-15 minutes to cool and absorb the syrup or honey. Lastly, experiment with different variations and serving suggestions to find your favorite way to enjoy Basbousa. Whether you serve it warm or cold, with whipped cream or fresh fruit, Basbousa is a dessert that can be customized to fit your preferences.