If you're looking for a delicious dessert with a Middle Eastern twist, look no further than basbousa. This traditional semolina dessert dish is a perfect way to end any meal. Not only is it tasty, but it's also relatively low in calories, with 1 oz of basbousa containing just 76 calories.

Basbousa is made from semolina flour and a mixture of other ingredients, such as sugar, butter, eggs, and yogurt or milk. Once the ingredients are combined, the mixture is poured into a baking dish, baked in the oven, and then soaked in a sweet syrup.

In this article, we'll explore the health benefits of basbousa, its ingredients, calorie content, and ways to make it healthier. We'll also compare basbousa to other popular desserts, provide serving suggestions, discuss its cultural significance, and offer some variations on the classic recipe.

What is Basbousa and How is it Made?

Basbousa is a traditional Middle Eastern dessert made from semolina flour and other ingredients. It's typically soaked in a sweet syrup to give it a moist, rich texture. To make basbousa, you'll need semolina flour, sugar, butter, yogurt or milk, eggs, baking powder, and vanilla extract. Mix these ingredients together, pour the batter into a baking dish, and bake in the oven at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes. Once it's done, pour the sweet syrup over the basbousa and let it soak in for at least an hour before serving.

Health Benefits of Basbousa

While basbousa is a sweet dessert, it does offer some health benefits to those who indulge. One of the main ingredients in basbousa is semolina flour, which is high in protein and low in fat. This can help keep you feeling full for longer and can aid in weight loss. Basbousa also contains yogurt or milk, which provides calcium, probiotics, and other nutrients that are beneficial to the body. However, it's important to note that basbousa does contain sugar and butter, so it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Ingredients of Semolina Dessert Dish

The main ingredients in basbousa include semolina flour, sugar, butter, yogurt or milk, eggs, baking powder, and vanilla extract. You can also add other ingredients to give it extra flavor, such as coconut or almonds. The syrup that basbousa is soaked in includes sugar, water, lemon juice, and sometimes orange blossom water or rose water.

How Many Calories Are There in Basbousa?

One ounce of basbousa contains approximately 76 calories. This makes it a relatively low-calorie dessert option compared to other sweets.

Tips for Healthier Basbousa

If you're looking to make your basbousa a bit healthier, there are a few tips to keep in mind. For starters, you can replace some of the sugar with honey to reduce the overall sugar content. You can also use almond flour or coconut flour instead of semolina flour to create a gluten-free version of the dessert. Additionally, you can try replacing some of the butter with applesauce or mashed bananas for a lower-fat version.

Basbousa vs. Other Desserts

Compared to other desserts, basbousa is a relatively low-calorie option. For example, one slice of cheesecake can contain up to 500-600 calories, while one piece of chocolate cake can contain up to 400-500 calories. However, it's still important to consume basbousa in moderation, as it does contain sugar and butter.

Serving Suggestions for Basbousa

Basbousa can be served warm or cold, depending on your preference. It pairs well with a cup of tea or coffee, and can also be served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream. You can also garnish basbousa with chopped nuts, such as almonds or pistachios, for added crunch and flavor.

Basbousa as a Traditional Dessert

Basbousa has deep cultural roots in the Middle East and is a popular dessert served during Ramadan and other festive occasions. It's often made with unique variations and is a staple in many households. It's a great way to share cultural heritage with friends and family through its flavors and associations with special events.

Variations of Basbousa Recipes

There are many variations to the traditional basbousa recipe. One common variation is to add coconut or almonds to the batter for added flavor and texture. You can also experiment with different types of syrup, such as honey or maple syrup, to change the overall sweetness of the dessert. Some recipes call for using cream or condensed milk in the batter to create an extra rich and creamy basbousa.

Basbousa Storage Guidelines

Basbousa can last for several days if stored properly. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and moist. If you have leftover basbousa, you can reheat it in the microwave or oven to soften it up again.