Balouza Muhallabia Fragrant Milk Pudding Recipe

Ingredients for Balouza Muhallabia Fragrant Milk Pudding

• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 4 cups milk
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar (reduce to 1/2 cup if desired)
• 1 tablespoon orange blossom water (or rose water)
• Blanched Almonds

How to Make Balouza Muhallabia Fragrant Milk Pudding

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup cornstarch with 1/2 cup of the milk until completely smooth, creating a slurry.
2. Pour the remaining 3 1/2 cups of milk and 3/4 cup sugar into a medium saucepan. Whisk in the cornstarch slurry.
3. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer, whisking constantly and vigorously to prevent lumps and burning. This will take about 5-7 minutes.
4. Reduce the heat to low and continue to simmer, stirring continuously, until the mixture thickens significantly. This will take about 8-10 minutes.
5. To test for doneness, drop a small spoonful of the pudding onto a cold plate. If it holds its shape without spreading, it's ready.
6. If it's still too thin, continue simmering and stirring for a few more minutes, then test again.
7. Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in 1 tablespoon of orange blossom water (or rose water). Stir well to combine.
8. Pour the pudding into a serving dish (glass or ceramic) and let it cool slightly at room temperature.
9. Once slightly cooled, decorate with 1/4 cup chopped pistachios, creating a beautiful pattern.
10. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until completely chilled, to allow the pudding to set properly. Serve chilled and enjoy!