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Saffron Pistachio Basbousa

Saffron Pistachio Basbousa Recipe: A Middle Eastern Delight
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Saffron Pistachio Basbousa is a luxurious semolina cake that beautifully combines the exotic flavors of saffron and the crunch of pistachios. This Middle Eastern delight is not only visually stunning, thanks to its vibrant colors, but it’s also incredibly easy to make, making it perfect for any occasion—from special gatherings to cozy family dinners or even a sweet treat after a long day. The moist cake absorbs a fragrant saffron syrup that elevates each bite into an indulgent experience. Whether you are an experienced baker or just getting started, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 200 g semolina (1 ¼ cups)
  • 100 g all-purpose flour (¾ cup)
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp ground cardamom
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 150 g sugar (¾ cup)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 120 ml whole milk (½ cup)
  • 100 g unsalted butter, melted (½ cup)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tbsp rosewater
  • ¼ cup chopped pistachios
  • 100 g sugar (½ cup) for syrup
  • 100 ml water (½ cup) for syrup
  • 1 tsp saffron threads for syrup
  • 1 tsp lemon juice for syrup

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a cake pan.
  2. In a bowl, mix semolina, flour, baking powder, cardamom, and cinnamon.
  3. In another bowl, whisk eggs, sugar, melted butter, milk, vanilla, and rosewater.
  4. Combine dry ingredients with wet ingredients gently until mixed.
  5. Pour batter into the pan and let sit for 10 minutes before baking.
  6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
  7. While baking, prepare saffron syrup by simmering sugar, water, saffron threads, and lemon juice until thickened.
  8. Pour warm syrup over hot cake right after removing from the oven.
  9. Let cool slightly before garnishing with chopped pistachios.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.weekmealideas.com/saffron-pistachio-basbousa-recipe-a-middle-eastern-delight/