Palestinian: Namoura (Semolina Dessert)

Recipe by Fairouz AbuGhazaleh <fairouzabughazaleh@gmail.com>

(serves 4-6)

Namura (aka Basbousa) is an eggless sweet cake that is found all over the Middle East, the Balkans and North Africa under a variety of names. This Palestinian version uses semolina flour and a sugar syrup enhanced with orange blossom water for a unique and irresistible dessert treat (also see video).

Ingredients:

• 1 cup plain yogurt (low fat preferred)
• 1 cup sugar
• 1¼ cup fine semolina flour (or sub Cream Wheat)
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ cup avocado oil (or sub corn oil)
• 16-24 Marcona almonds

For the syrup:

• ¾ cup water
• ¾ cup of sugar
• A few drops of lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon orange blossom water (optional)

Procedure:

1. Preheat oven to 350 F
2. In a bowl, add yogurt and sugar; mix well
3. Add semolina flour, baking powder, baking soda; mix well
4. Add oil and mix until blended well
5. Pour mixture into a baking dish (approx 9x12 inches) and let sit for 15 minutes
6. Arrange almonds on top and bake for about 25-30 minutes
7. Make the syrup: In a small saucepan, mix water and sugar together; bring to a boil and let it boil for a few minutes to thicken the syrup
8. Turn off heat, then add a few drops of lemon juice and the orange blossom water (if using)
9. Drizzle the syrup all over the surface of the namoura and let it soak for 10-15 minutes
10. Cut into diamond shaped pieces and enjoy