LAYALI LEBNAN

An Arabic cold semolina pudding, which literally translates to Lebanese Nights! It consists of a thick layer of semolina, topped with another rich layer of whipped cream and is then smothered with sugar syrup. There are many different ways to make it, but I guarantee you that you will not find a more delicious recipe than this.

INGREDIENTS

Semolina layer:

• 1 cup fine semolina

• 1 cup powdered milk

• 3 cups water

• 1/2 cup sugar

• 1 tablespoon rose water

• 1 tablespoon orange blossom water

• Pinch of mastic powder

Cream layer:

• 3 envelopes of Dream Whip (or any whipped topping mix brand)

• 1 can fresh cream (ashta, I use Nestle)

• Pistachio or almonds to decorate

• Sugar syrup to drizzle

PREPARATION

1. In a saucepan, combine the semolina, milk powder, sugar and water and mix well. Then place over medium heat and stir regularly until it thickens into a pudding-like consistency.

2. Once it starts to thicken, add the rose water, orange blossom water and mastic for flavor, and mix.

3. Transfer the semolina pudding into your serving platter, and spread it evenly at the base, then refrigerate to cool completely.

4. In the meantime, in a bowl, beat together 3 envelopes of Dream Whip with a can of fresh cream until stiff peaks form.

5. Once the semolina pudding has cooled, spread the whipped cream over it and top with the nuts.

6. Serve cold with a drizzle of sugar syrup.

Notes:
I find that it is sweet enough without the sugar syrup, but many people will vehemently disagree with me.

You can decorate it however you wish, using rose petals, nuts or coconut shavings.

The cream layer can be made using any recipe you like. I find this to be the easiest, but also the most delicious in flavor and consistency.