Semolina Pudding
HB-2025 · Hand-built original · Bahraini
Meet Semolina Pudding, the sweet, syrup-soaked treat that lies at the heart of Bahrain's dessert tradition. Also known as basbousa, this tender cake of golden semolina is drenched in fragrant syrup and scattered with almonds for a taste of the Middle East in every bite. It graces festive tables and family gatherings alike, yet it is simple enough for any home cook to master. Bring the warm flavours of Arabia to your own kitchen with this timeless classic.
BahrainiDessert1–2 servings1849 kcalVegetarianEgg-freeHigh Fiber
Main ingredient: semolina
Pairs well with: coffee, vanilla ice cream, fresh berries, whipped cream
Servings:1quantities adjust to match
Ingredients
- 3½ oz butter or plant-based margarine, melted, plus more for the dish
- 7 oz fine semolina
- 13½ Tbsp yoghurt or a vegan alternative
- 3½ oz sugar
- 4 Tbsp milk or plant-based milk
- 1 tsp baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- For the syrup: 7 oz sugar, 13½ Tbsp water, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tsp rose water (optional)
- Chopped pistachios or almonds, for serving (optional)
Method
- First make the syrup: combine the sugar and water in a small pan, bring to a boil, and simmer for 8 minutes. Stir in the lemon juice and rose water, if using, and leave to cool completely.
- Heat the oven to 350°F and butter a 8 in (8-inch) baking dish.
- Whisk the yoghurt, sugar, melted butter, and milk together. Stir in the semolina, baking powder, and salt to make a thick batter. Rest for 10 minutes so the semolina hydrates.
- Spread the batter evenly in the dish and score the top into squares or diamonds.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until golden and firm to the touch.
- Pour the cool syrup slowly over the hot cake as soon as it comes out of the oven and leave for at least 20 minutes to soak in.
- Cut along the scored lines and serve warm or at room temperature, with nuts scattered over if you like.
Nutrition (per serving, where published)
1849 kcalCalories
25.8 gProtein
251.8 gCarbs
82.3 gFat
14.6 gSaturates
8.1 gFibre
5.1 gSugars
1293 mgSodium
12 mgCholesterol
441 mgPotassium
394 mgCalcium
9.5 mgIron
1 servingServing
Estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data