Degchi
A dense, moist semolina cake soaked in sugar syrup while still warm, marked in diamonds and topped with an almond. Simple pantry ingredients, baked for every gathering, teatime and Eid table across the Gulf.
Quick answer: 45 min in total · serves 4 · main ingredients: Semolina, Sugar, Yogurt, Butter · amounts in metric and US
Ingredients
- 250 g 1.5 cup Semolina
- 300 g 1.5 cup Sugar
- 150 g 0.6 cup Yogurt
- 80 g 5.5 tbsp Butter, melted
- 1 tsp 1 tsp Baking powder
- 16 pc 16 pc Dry fruits, whole almonds, for topping
- 1 tsp 1 tsp Rose water (Optional)
Steps
Timers run only while this tab is open. The Degchi app keeps them running on a locked phone.
- Mix semolina, half of the sugar, yoghurt, melted butter and baking powder into a thick, smooth batter.
- Let the batter rest for 15 minutes so the semolina absorbs the moisture.⏱ Resting batter · 15 min
- Pour into a greased tray, smooth the top and score into diamond shapes with a knife; press an almond into each diamond.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C until golden on top.⏱ Baking · 30 min
- Meanwhile, boil the remaining sugar with 100 ml (about 7 tablespoons) of water for 5 to 7 minutes to make a light syrup; stir in the rose water and let it cool a little.⏱ Making syrup · 5 min
- Pour the hot syrup evenly over the warm dessert and let it soak in before serving.
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Frequently asked questions
How long does Basbousa take?
45 minutes in total: about 10 minutes of prep and 35 minutes of cooking.
Is Basbousa hard to make?
Degchi rates it easy. The method has 6 steps, and 3 of them have a timer you can start on this page.
How many people does Basbousa serve?
This recipe serves 4. Use the toggle above the ingredient list to see the amounts in metric or US measures. For more or fewer portions, scale every amount in the same proportion, or use the servings control in the Degchi app.
Is Basbousa halal, vegetarian or eggless?
It is marked halal in our recipe data. It is vegetarian. It has no egg. It has no beef. Check the labels on any packaged ingredients for your own needs.
What will I probably need to buy for Basbousa?
Fresh items you will probably need to buy: yogurt, butter. Lentils, grains and other dry goods: semolina, sugar, baking powder, dry fruits.
Notes and questions
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Cooking terms in this recipe: Sooji (semolina)
