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Basboosa Haressa Semolina Cake Recipe

Discover the authentic taste of Basboosa Haressa Semolina Cake, a beloved classic from Syria, Lebanon, and Jordan! Unlike richer, egg-laden versions, this recipe delivers a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Made with just one heaped cup of coarse semolina, this recipe creates wonderfully thin, delectable squares. Prepare to be amazed by its unique, subtly sweet flavor – a true testament to the region's culinary heritage. This is the BEST Basboosa recipe you'll ever try!

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 60 mins
Calories 744.5 kcal
Protein 7g
Rating 1.0 (1 Reviews)
Basboosa Haressa Semolina Cake 21

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Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Basboosa Haressa Semolina Cake

  • 1 heaped cup (approximately 150g) coarse semolina
  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for batter)
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • blanched almonds, for garnish
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (for syrup)
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

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How to Make Basboosa Haressa Semolina Cake

  1. **Prepare the Syrup:** In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of water and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
  2. **Simmer the Syrup:** Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the syrup thickens and reaches a light syrupy consistency.
  3. **Add Lemon Zest:** Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of fresh lemon juice. Set aside to cool completely.
  4. **Prepare the Batter:** In a large bowl, whisk together 1 heaped cup (approximately 150g) coarse semolina, 1 cup plain yogurt, ½ cup granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and ¼ cup vegetable oil until well combined.
  5. **Bake the Cake:** Pour the batter into a greased 9x12 inch baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 200°F (93°C) for 30-40 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and set.
  6. **Cut and Garnish:** Once cooled slightly, cut the cake diagonally into small diamond shapes. Top each square with a blanched almond.
  7. **Grill for Golden Perfection:** Broil for 3-4 minutes, watching carefully, until the almonds are lightly golden brown.
  8. **Syrup Infusion:** Pour the cooled syrup evenly over the warm cake. Let it sit in the dish to absorb the syrup completely.
  9. **Cool and Serve:** Allow the Basboosa to cool completely in the dish before serving. This prevents it from crumbling.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

3 g

Sugar

332g

Fat

23g

Carbs

34g

Recipe Categories (Choose a category and find related recipes!)

Sweets & Sides Desserts Mediterranean Vegetarian Baking

Recipe Tags (Choose a tag and find related recipes!)

60 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Course Cuisine Preparation Libyan Desserts African Asian Middle Eastern Cakes Lebanese